Heat warning changed to Extreme Heat Alert

The heat warning issued by Environment Canada has now been escalated to an Extreme Heat Alert.

Record-high temperatures expected in the Lower Mainland tomorrow will continue until at least Tuesday, June 29,  with daytime highs ranging from 29 to 39 degrees Celsius combined with overnight lows of 18 to 21 degrees Celsius.

Humidex values during this period will reach the high 30s to possibly the low 40s.

High temperatures are historically associated with an increase in deaths among Lower Mainland residents.

While everyone is at risk of heat related illness, hot temperatures can be especially dangerous for the young, the elderly, those working or exercising in the heat, persons with chronic heart and lung con­ditions, persons with mental illness, people living alone and people experiencing homelessness.

If you are taking medication, particularly for mental illness, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it increases your health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.

Two local cooling centres in Squamish are available for those who want to escape the heat.