Emergency Management BC is advising people across the province to prepare for possible heat warnings as temperatures are forecast to rise in the coming week. According to a statement from EMBC, a ridge of high pressure is moving into the province, with Environment Canada predicting hot and dry weather for many areas. EMBC said heat warnings may be issued this coming weekend or early next week. “While the current forecast suggests a drop in daytime high temperatures later this week, there is a chance that a ridge of high pressure will increase this weekend and into next week, which may lead to warmer temperatures,” the statement said . According to the province, no extreme heat emergency is expected, but residents are advised to make a plan to ensure they are protected from illnesses such as heat stroke, heat rash and heat exhaustion. “A heat plan should identify cool zones inside and outside homes (such as community centers and libraries), ways to cool down (such as taking cool baths or showers and drinking plenty of water) and identifying vulnerable family members and neighbors which is sensitive to heat,” the statement said. EMBC said residents trying to beat the heat should remain cautious around water as some rivers are still running high and fast, while other bodies of water are cold this time of year and could cause hypothermia. According to EMBC, some communities across the province may open cooling centers if a heat advisory is issued. Residents are advised to contact their local government for more information.
