Metro Vancouver is in the thick of its first official heat wave, with temperatures expected to push above 32 degrees inland over the weekend.
Environment Canada released a special weather statement Saturday for hot weather around the province, warning that along with the scorching hot temperatures, the risk of wildfires is also peaking.
The heat will cool slightly but continue throughout the week with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s up to 30 degrees.
In B.C.’s southern interior, extremely hot temperatures prompted Environment Canada to warn residents to stay cool and keep hydrated, with thermometers expected to push 40 degrees over the weekend.
The agency recommends people drink cool beverages throughout the day, spend at least a few hours per day inside where it’s cooler, and to check in on people living alone who may be at risk in the severe heat, such as the elderly.
A meterologist with Environment Canada says it is also important to wear sunscreen this weekend because it will only take about 15 minutes for skin to get burned.
Hot, dry, and windy conditions across the province have also had wildfire crews on alert for the last week. They’re currently battling a growing blaze southeast of Tumbler Ridge that fire covers some 50 square kilometers, but officials say it’s expected to double in size.
Isolated thunderstorms may also creep their way into the province from Washington, leading to an even higher risk of wildfires sparked by lightning, according to Environment Canada.
Closer to home, the hot weather is causing a red algae bloom in Burrard Inlet. The phenomenon, commonly known as “red tide,” is not toxic. It’s the result of warming water in the inlet.
With a report from CTV Vancouver's Tom Popyk
