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Heat wave coming to Cowichan this week

daytime highs of 31 C to 35 C
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Environment Canada is warning about a heat wave this week, with temperatures to reach into the 30 C range. (Andrea Rondeau/Gazette)

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the Cowichan Valley for Monday, July 25 to Saturday, July 30.

The warning encompasses most of the province, as temperatures are set to soar, with temperatures from Duncan to Nanaimo forecast to hit daytime highs of 31 C to 35 C, which will feel even higher with humidity. Early morning temperatures will be from 15 C to 17 C.

The heat wave is being caused by a strong ridge of high pressure, according to Environment Canada, with the highest temperatures expected from Wednesday to Friday. The hottest time of the day will be late afternoon to early evening. If you want to get out during the coolest part of the day, plan to head out near sunrise.

Local governments in the Cowichan Valley, coordinated by the Cowichan Valley Regional District, were letting people know about cooling stations in the region that are already open, including recreation centres that have their lobby doors open and water on hand, and local library branches. In addition, Cowichan Tribes has a cooling station from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday to Friday, in their Elders building. Neighbourhood House in Chemainus is also open for cooling from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday to Friday.

If there is more demand for cooling services, the CVRD will coordinate further locations, said Leah Waldron, CVRD communications coordinator.

“Extreme heat affects everyone,” said Environment Canada in a press release. “The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors.

“Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.”

Call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 to ask about heat-related illness.



Andrea Rondeau

About the Author: Andrea Rondeau

I returned to B.C. and found myself at the Cowichan Valley Citizen.
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