Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Stuart Nechako with temperatures expected to soar into the 30s Celsius, posing a moderate risk to public health.
The elevated temperatures will persist through the end of the week, with daytime highs in the 30s and overnight lows in the mid-teens.
The heart warning also extends to 100 Mile, Cariboo, Yellowhead, North Thompson, Prince George, Fort Nelson, and BC Peace River.
A strong ridge of high pressure over the region will continue to result in very high temperatures,” the weather agency said in a July 8 statement.
These temperatures are expected to moderate beginning Thursday but will remain elevated for 100 Mile and North Thompson.
Heat affects everyone, but the risks are greater for: seniors, people who live alone, people with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or respiratory disease, people with mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety, people with substance use disorders, people with limited mobility.
Meanwhile residents are encouraged to:
- Check on family, friends and neighbours, who are at higher risk, particularly if they live alone, to make sure they have a cool space.
- Watch for early signs of heat illness (feeling unwell, fatigue, thirst, headache, unusually dark urine) as these can rapidly evolve into life-threatening emergencies.
- Move to a cooler environment immediately, such as a shaded or air-conditioned space.
- Drink plenty of water regularly, even before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration.
Environment Canada and local Medical Health Officers expect an increase in health and safety risks from heat and are advising the public to take precautions.
More information on health and safety updates can be found on Northern Health's site.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #BCStorm.
