Public urged to stay cool as high temperatures expected for the Kootenays

B.C. residents are urged to prepare for summer heat with high temperatures in the forecast for much of the province, including the Kootenays.

Environment and Climate Change Canada is predicting temperatures to climb into the mid-to-high 30s over the July 6th weekend and linger until late next week.

“A ridge of high pressure will build off the Pacific coast of B.C. and gradually progress eastward. With that, we’re looking at temperatures starting to elevate with each successive day,” said Meteorologist Ken Dosanjh.

“For southeastern B.C., we’re going to see sunny skies pretty much consistently until Thursday or Friday.”

B.C. government officials expect heat warnings to come for the Interior region in the days ahead.

Dosanjh said you should do your best to be prepared for high temperatures.

“Considering this is our first prolonged heat spell of the year, I encourage people to remember what it was like in previous heat spells,” said Dosanjh.

“If you can, try to avoid peak hours, from 11 a.m. or noon to around 4 p.m. That’s when the sun angle is going to be at its highest and the peak intensity will be prominent, so if you have any errands to do, you should try to do them in the morning or later in the day.”

The B.C. government said older adults and people with chronic health conditions are most vulnerable to extreme heat.

Those with schizophrenia, COPD, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and physical and cognitive disabilities are also more susceptible to high temperatures.

“Stay cool and stay hydrated. I know those are simple tips, but it’s always a good reminder,” said Dosanjh. “You should still drink water, even if you don’t feel like it, just to keep your internal body hydrated and cool.”

B.C. officials said you should take advantage of an air conditioning unit if you have one.

If you do not, many communities also offer cooling centres in public buildings, such as libraries.