Get ready to sizzle as major heat wave rolls into town
It’s time to shed the layers, Metro Vancouver. It looks like the first major heat wave of the summer season is set to roll across the region.
Environment Canada on Saturday posted a special weather statement, saying a major shift in the weather pattern is going to see the temperatures spike into the 30s.
The agency says the recent cool, rainy weather will give way to a strong and persistent ridge of high pressure.
By today, on Father’s Day, the temperatures inland are expected to hit the low 30s.
Environment Canada says the heat wave will spread to B.C.’s Interior by early next week, and will affect most of the province.
It’s expected the hotter temperatures will last into next week.
With the arrival of hot weather this weekend, the city of Vancouver is advising residents to ensure they stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take regular breaks from their activities.
A spokeswoman for the city, Ellie Lambert, said in an email on Saturday that police, firefighters and teams of park rangers will be monitoring public spaces for people affected adversely by the heat.
Lambert said city officials are encouraging everyone to keep a close watch out for others who might be in distress or vulnerable to the high temperatures.
Meanwhile, the city’s housing operations teams will be checking on residents and some city facilities will be posting cooling centre notices and providing potable water, she added.
A map of the city’s water fountains and advice on staying safe in the heat can be found here.