4:36 AM PDT Monday 15 July 2024 Heat Warning in effect for: B.C. South Peace River This is a heat warning. Elevated temperatures are expected and there is a moderate risk to public health. Where: Peace River When: Continuing through this week What: Daytime highs in the high 20s and in the low 30s with overnight lows in the mid teens. Remarks: An extended period of high temperatures will continue as a ridge of high pressure remains over the region. Little relief is expected at night with elevated overnight temperatures. Current guidance indicates high temperatures gradually moderating late this week. Heat affects everyone, but the risks are greater for: seniors, people who live alone, people with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or respiratory disease, people with mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety, people with substance use disorders, people with limited mobility. Check on family, friends and neighbours, who are at higher risk, particularly if they live alone, to make sure they have a cool space. Keep your house cool. Turn on your air conditioning (if possible), block the sun by closing curtains or blinds, or relocate to a cooler location such as a basement or public cooling centre. Fans alone cannot effectively lower core body temperature, especially for older adults. Use fans to pull in cooler air from outdoors, but if you or someone you care for is experiencing symptoms of heat illness, find a cooler space. To get more information: - Check the local news for health and safety updates. - Check HealthLinkBC online resources about heat-related illness and how to protect yourself at healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/heat-related-illness . - Call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 to ask about heat-related illness. Environment Canada and local Medical Health Officers expect an increase in health and safety risks from heat and are advising the public to take precautions. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #BCStorm .