Heat wave incoming for much of B.C.

British Columbians are encouraged to prepare for potential heat warnings.

A high-pressure ridge is moving into B.C., bringing with it rising temperatures and dry weather.

Environment Canada’s forecasts for Vernon and Kelowna show the mercury reaching day time highs around 33 and overnight lows in the high teens for the rest of the week, before reaching 34 on Monday and 35 on Tuesday. There is no precipitation in the seven-day forecast.

While the temperatures are rising, the weather authority is not anticipating any extreme heat emergencies, though British Columbians are encouraged to monitor the forecast and be prepared in case temperatures do spike.

The hot, dry weather will bring with it a higher risk of heat-related illness, particularly for people with health conditions, elderly people, and small children.

People should watch for symptoms of heat illnesses such as dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, confusion, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst, and decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should immediately move to cool, shaded place and drink water.

If symptoms are not mild, change, or last longer than an hour, then the person should seek immediate medical attention.

British Columbians are encouraged to be prepared and to establish a heat plan for themselves and loved ones, which should include identifying cool zones like libraries and community centres; identify ways to cool down such as having cool showers; drink plenty of water; avoid long periods of time directly in the sun; and check on any vulnerable friends or family members regularly.

The province has created an Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide and encourages people use it as a reference to creating their own plan.