Another scorcher on the way for B.C.'s South Coast

CTV News

5 days ago

People try to beat the heat by enjoying the river in Lynn Valley in North Vancouver, B.C. Tuesday, July 10, 2012. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward
British Columbians are being urged to brace for another wave of heat, with temperatures forecast to soar across the South Coast this week.
Some areas could see the mercury climb to more than 10 degrees above seasonal.
Daytime highs in Metro Vancouver are expected to reach around 24 C Monday, but conditions will become significantly hotter starting Tuesday.
That's when a powerful upper-level ridge is forecast to build over the region, ushering in several days of sunshine and soaring temperatures.
Temperatures near the water could hit the high 20s or even 30 degrees, with inland areas and parts of the Interior pushing into the mid-30s.
By Wednesday, even waterfront areas in the Lower Mainland could hit 30 degrees with mid-thirties possible in parts of the Interior.
Compounding the concern is the lack of rain.
This month is shaping up to be one of the driest Julys on record.
Vancouver has seen only 17 millimetres of rainfall so far, less than half the monthly average of 34 millimetres typically recorded by this time of year.
Increased wildfire risk
With extreme heat and little precipitation, wildfire conditions are worsening across much of the province.
The fire danger rating is high to extreme in several regions, especially in B.C.'s southern Interior where wind and lightning are adding to the threat.
Officials are urging the public to follow fire bans and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately.
Staying safe in the heat
While the sunshine may be welcome for beachgoers, health experts warn that prolonged exposure can be dangerous, especially for young children, seniors, and people with chronic health conditions.
Symptoms of heat-related illness include:
Headache
Dizziness or light-headedness
Nausea or vomiting
Rapid breathing or heartbeat
Confusion or fainting
British Columbians are advised to stay cool, hydrated, and to check in on vulnerable neighbours. Cities across the region are expected to open cooling centres if temperatures reach extreme thresholds.