6:33 PM PDT Friday 12 July 2024 Heat Warning in effect for: East Kootenay - south including Cranbrook This is a heat warning. Elevated temperatures are expected and there is a moderate risk to public health. Where: Kootenay Lake and East Kootenay. When: Hot conditions will continue into the weekend. What: Daytime highs reaching the mid 30s with overnight lows in the high teens to low 20s. Remarks: A ridge of high pressure over the region continues to bring very high temperatures. These temperatures are expected to moderate this weekend but will remain elevated at or near warning criteria. 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. Never leave susceptible people, particularly children, or pets inside a parked vehicle. If you are in an overheated area, seek a cool place such as a tree-shaded area, splash pad, misting station, or air-conditioned spot like a public building. 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 .
