Environment Canada is calling for heat in the coming days in Kamloops and across British Columbia.
According to the forecast on Wednesday morning, Environment Canada was calling for highs of 33 C through Saturday, when temperatures were expected to increase to 34 C for the weekend and up to 37 C by early next week. The weather is expected to be sunny and clear.
A press release issued by the province on Tuesday warns residents across the province to prepare for potential heat warnings. People are encouraged to monitor the forecasts and prepare accordingly.
In June, the province announced a heat alert and response system. The city has said it will open cooling sites, encourage residents to check on neighbours and more during extreme heat.
Criteria for a heat warning (level one) is a forecast of a daytime high greater than or equal to 35 C and an overnight low greater than or equal to 18 C forecast for two consecutive days. Heat warnings are considered moderate risk to public health and are expected one to three times per summer.
An extreme heat emergency (level two) will be issued when the heat warning criteria has been met and forecasts indicate daily highs will substantially increase for three or more consecutive days. Extreme heat emergencies are considered very high public health risk and are expected once or twice every 10 years.
When a heat warning is issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada, the city will staff three indoor cooling sites, including Sandman Centre concourse, Parkview Activity Centre and Valleyview Community Hall.
Last year, a heat wave claimed the lives of 595 people in B.C., including 17 people in Kamloops. On June 29, 2021, the temperature reached a record-setting 47.3 C.
Did you know?
• Heat illnesses include: heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (swelling of hands, feet and ankles), heat rash and heat cramps (muscle cramps);
• Symptoms include: dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, confusion, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst, and decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine;
• If someone experiences any of these symptoms during extreme heat, they should immediately move to a cool place, start cooling down and drink liquids;
• If symptoms are not mild, last longer than one hour, change, worsen or cause concern, contact a health-care provider.
