Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued heat warnings for several areas of British Columbia. Daytime temperatures are expected to reach the mid-30s in the Lower Mainland, starting Sunday and lasting through the week.
As per the BC Heat Alert and Response Plan, government, health authorities, hospitals, and community care sites are taking actions to prepare for the potential heat to keep people safe. While temperatures will be hot and vulnerable populations may be at risk, this heat wave is not expected to be as strong as the 2021 Heath Dome.
Please take steps to ensure you can stay cool. Indoor temperatures of 31°C and higher can pose a risk to vulnerable people. Monitor yourself and loved ones for heat illness (some signs include dizziness, nausea, rapid breathing, and a fast heart rate). Many communities will also be activating cooling centres near you.
- Click here for a list of outdoor misting stations in the City of North Vancouver.
- Click here for a map of cooling centres on the North Shore.
- Visit EmergencyInfoBC for emergency info across BC or refer to your local government website.
- Learn more about staying safe during heat at gov.bc.ca/ExtremeHeat.
Scroll down to learn the warning signs and call 9-1-1 if someone you are caring for is showing signs of heat stroke of severe heat-related illness.
Severe Heat-Related Illness
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Difficulty speaking
- Movement and coordination problems
- Lethargic
- Not sweating
- Hot, flushed skin or very pale skin
- Not urinating or very little urinating
- Rapid breathing and faint, rapid heart rate
- Body temperature >39°C (102°F)
Severe heat illness and heat stroke are medical emergencies. Call 9-1-1 if you are caring for someone with signs or symptoms of severe heat-related illness.While waiting for help to arrive, cool the person by moving them to a cool place, if you can; removing excess clothing; and applying cold water, wet towels or ice packs around the body, especially the neck, armpits, and groin.
Mild-to-Moderate Heat-Related Illness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Irritability
- Light-headed or dizziness
- Disorientation
- Thirst or dry mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fatigue, malaise
- Heat rash, heat edema or heat cramps
- Decreased urine output
- Increased heart rate
- Skin feels very warm and sweaty
- Body temperature over 38°C (100°F)
Contact a healthcare provider or call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 if you are unsure. Mild to moderate heat illness can quickly become severe. If symptoms get worse, call 9-1-1.
