Heat warning for Metro Vancouver

ENVIRONMENT Canada on Monday issued a heat warning for Metro Vancouver even as the first heat wave of the season began.

Sunny skies and very warm air are on tap for the next several days as a strong ridge of high pressure envelopes British Columbia.

High temperatures will reach the low thirties on Monday and Tuesday, which is approximately 12 to 14 degrees above the average for the middle of June. Low temperatures will hover around 16 degrees tonight and Tuesday night as well.

Daily temperature records may be broken in some communities.

The ridge and very warm air are expected to stick around until Wednesday. Some cooling will begin on Thursday.

Advice:

* Drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place.
* Check on older family, friends and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and drinking water
* Reduce your heat risk. Schedule outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day.
* Seek a cool place such as a tree-shaded area, swimming pool, shower or bath, or air-conditioned spot like a public building.
*Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
* Ask a health professional how medications or health conditions can affect your risk in the heat.
* Watch for the symptoms of heat illness: dizziness / fainting; nausea / vomiting; rapid breathing and heartbeat; extreme thirst; decreased urination with unusually dark urine.

Get informed
– Check the local news for health and safety updates.
– For more information on heat-related illness, call HealthLinkBC at 811.
– Contact your local government to find out what services (such as air-conditioned buildings and public splash parks) are available in your area.

Environment Canada and the Lower Mainland Medical Health Officers expect an increase in health and safety risks from heat and are advising the public to take precautions.