With the weather heating up across Vancouver Island, some folys are taking the plunge to stay cool and have fun.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for East Vancouver Island and Inland Vancouver Island due to a heat wave that is expected over the weekend.
Temperatures will peak this weekend with maximums of at least 32 C expected away from the water.
On Vancouver Island, the alert is in place from Courtenay to Campbell River, Duncan to Nanaimo and Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay. The special weather statement also includes Inland Vancouver Island.
Environment Canada said areas such as Abbotsford can expect to reach 31.4 C on Saturday and 32 C on Sunday. Daily temperature records are expected to be broken over the weekend.
According to Environment Canada, temperatures will moderate on Monday over the south coast as an onshore flow of cooler, marine air develops. Temperatures in the south-west interior will also peak on Sunday and daytime highs on Monday are expected to be at least couple of degrees cooler.
The effects of heat illness can include swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions. The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors.
Residents are asked to drink plenty of water even before they feel thirsty and to stay in a cool place. People and pets should not be left inside hot vehicles.
Alexa Huffman
