Summer is a couple of weeks away but Environment Canada is preparing the Okanagan for the warmer weather on the way this weekend.
Starting Saturday, June 7, and through the weekend into next week, a ridge of high pressure is bringing the high temperatures, according to the government weather agency. Because of this, Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement, calling it a "early season heat event."
"Temperatures will be warming through the weekend. By Sunday, highs are expected to be in the low to mid 30's with overnight lows in the mid-teens," stated Environment Canada. "High temperatures will persist into early next week."
Some tips to beat the heat from Environment Canada are:
- Keep your house cool;
- Block the sun by closing curtains or blinds;
- Watch for the effects of heat illness: heavy sweating, rash, cramps, fainting, high body temperature and the worsening of some health conditions;
- Fans alone cannot effectively lower core body temperature, especially for older adults. Use fans to pull in cooler air from outdoors, but if you or someone you care for is experiencing symptoms of heat illness, find a cooler space.
This week in the Okanagan, there were two wildfires on the BC Wildfire Map - in OK Falls and in Kelowna. Both have been extinguished but with the upcoming conditions, there is a higher chance of a fire spreading.
The Category 3 opening burning prohibition placed by BC Wildfire Service for the Kamloops Fire Centre was put in effect on May 16. This means open fire is prohibited, to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. The map of where the Category 3 ban is in effect can be found on the BC Wildfire Service website.
The special weather statement for the "early season heat event" has also been issued for the Lower Mainland, Eastern Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island, the western part of the Kootenay District, and the North Thompson.
