Heat warnings blanket interior B.C. with mid-to-high 30s expected this week

Heat warnings are in effect across eighteen regions of British Columbia, with a ridge of high pressure bringing elevated temperatures to much of the province through Thursday before a cooling trend begins.

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, high temperatures pose a "risk to public health," with readings expected in the mid-to-high 30s Celsius combined with overnight lows in the mid-to-high teens. Affected regions include the Central and North Okanagan, South Thompson, Boundary, Shuswap, West Kootenay, Howe Sound, Whistler, Sunshine Coast, multiple Fraser Valley zones, and sections of the North and Central Coast.

In Metro Vancouver, inland temperatures could feel up to 35°C on Tuesday, July 21, with a UV index of 8 (very high). Midweek temperatures could reach 31°C inland on Wednesday and 28°C on Thursday.

Environment and Climate Change Canada urges people to check on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours who are at higher risk during extreme heat. Early signs of heat illness include feeling unwell, fatigue, thirst, headache, and unusually dark urine. Those experiencing these symptoms should move to a cooler environment such as a shaded or air-conditioned space.

EmergencyInfoBC advises British Columbians to drink plenty of water, take precautions to stay cool, and call 911 or their local emergency number in case of a medical emergency.