Wildfire smoke and high temperatures have prompted Environment and Climate Change Canada to issue weather and air quality warnings for the Fraser Canyon and Fraser Valley.
With temperatures hovering around 35 degrees Celcius expected until early next week and a risk of wildfires, heat and air quality warnings have been issued for the entire Fraser Canyon. The Fraser Valley also has a heat warning in place, with temperatures reaching 32 degrees expected to continue throughout the weekend.
Although anyone can be affected by the high temperatures and smoke, Environment Canada warned some groups are more at risk, including “people with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, infants, children and sensitive individuals.” People working outdoors and pregnant women are also at risk in the extreme heat.
To beat the heat, Environment Canada recommends staying hydrated by drinking water or other cold beverages, spending several hours a day in a space with air conditioning, avoiding sunburns by wearing sunscreen and staying in the shade and never leaving pets or people in parked cars.
Effects of heat illness to watch for include “swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.”
In the Fraser Canyon, residents should also look out for the effects of lower air quality due to wildfire smoke, these include “increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.”
“Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk,” the air quality warning stated.
If residents of the canyon are experiencing difficulties breathing, they are advised to stay indoors in a cool and ventilated space. Instead of opening windows, residents should use air conditioners or go to a place that is air-conditioned such as a library or recreation centre.
The over 30 degree weather is forecast to continue throughout the weekend in the Fraser Valley, and stretch into early next week for the Fraser Canyon.
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