With the first true summer heat on the way, Interior Health has some advice

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a special weather statement for numerous parts of the province as we see a spike in temperatures.

In the Interior regions, we should see temperatures ranging from the low to mid-30s this weekend.

“This is not a heat warning or an extreme heat emergency, but we will experience the first high temperatures of the summer,” reads a release from Interior Health.

“The warmer weather will also cause rapid snow melt, leading to high rivers and streams throughout the province so please keep water safety in mind this weekend.”

These first high temperatures of the season can also lead to some people overheating because they’re not yet acclimatized to the warmer conditions.

IH provided a few ways that individuals can cool off if things get too warm this weekend.

• If you do not have air conditioning at home, find an air-conditioned spot close by where you can cool off on hot days. Consider places in your community to spend time such as movie theatres, libraries, community centres, or shopping malls.
• Check that you have a working fan. If you have an air conditioner, make sure it works.
• Shut windows and close curtains or blinds during the heat of the day to block the sun and to prevent hotter outdoor air from coming inside. Open doors and windows when it is cooler outside to move that cooler air indoors.
• Spray your body down with water, wear a damp shirt, take a cool shower or bath, or sit with part of your body in water to cool down if you are feeling too hot.
• Drink plenty of water and other liquids to stay hydrated, even if you are not feeling thirsty

Following the extreme heat events of last year's heat dome, in which 619 people died in BC, the province released an Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide to provide additional information to residents on how to stay cool during the summer months.

According to the BC’s Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide, new evidence shows that sustained ambient temperatures over 31°C can overwhelm the body’s natural cooling systems, especially for older people and those who have chronic health conditions.

"Some people in our families or in our community are at higher risk than others during Extreme Heat Emergencies, but we all go through them together," explained Dr. Bonnie Henery.

"With careful planning and preparation before the next big event, we can collectively identify those at higher risk and use some simple strategies to help them stay safe."

Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, severe headache, muscle cramps, extreme thirst, and dark urine. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should seek a cooler environment, drink plenty of water, rest, and use water to cool your body.

In the event of a medical emergency, British Columbians are advised to call 9-1-1. However, it is also important to use 9-1-1 responsibly to avoid overwhelming the system.

Kelowna

June 24 - Mainly sunny with a high of 25°C

June 25 - Sunny with a high of 28​​°C

June 26 - Sunny with a high of 29°C

Penticton

June 24 - Sunny with a high of 26°C

June 25 - Sunny with a high of 29°C

June 26 - Sunny with a high of 29°C

Kamloops

June 24 - Sun and cloud with a high of 26°C

June 25 - Sunny with a high of 29°C

June 26- Sunny with a high of 30°C

Vernon

June 24 - Mainly sunny with a high of 24°C

June 25 - Sunny with a high of 27°C

June 26 - Sunny with a high of 29°C

Merritt

June 24 - Sun and cloud with a high of 26°C

June 25 - Sunny with a high of 31°C

June 26 - Sunny with a high of 33°C