Heat warnings in effect throughout B.C. Interior

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued heat warnings for a good chunk of B.C.'s Interior this week, as temperatures soar into the mid-to-high thirties. 

Forecasters say the temperature could reach as high as 38 C in some areas, including the Okanagan Valley, Fraser Canyon, South Thompson, Boundary and West Kootenay regions. 

The northeastern part of the province could see temperatures as high as 32 C, while the North Thompson, Prince George, 100 Mile, Stuart-Nechako, North Columbia, Kinbasket and Cariboo are looking at temperatures of up to 34 C, Environment Canada says.

Wildfire smoke is also expected to impact the South Thompson and Fraser Canyon for the next 24 to 48 hours, and a special air quality statement has been issued for those regions. 

Environment Canada said temperatures will remain high until Thursday, and are expected to fall toward more normal seasonal values by Friday. 

The forecaster is reminding British Columbians of the effect heat has on everyone, but in particular, on those at risk during heat events. That includes seniors, people with pre-existing health conditions, those with limited mobility, as well as people who live alone. It is advising people in heat-affected areas to take precautions to avoid heat-related illness. 

Corinne Dolman, manager of housing and outreach for Interior Health, said people who are homeless are particularly vulnerable to heat because they don't have access to air-conditioning or fresh or clean water.

"It's important that people stay cool," she said. "It can become quite serious. People can even die from heat-related illnesses."

Dolman said her team of outreach workers fills backpacks full of water to hand out as they canvas the streets for folks in need of assistance. 

Storm watch

Meanwhile, Environment Canada says severe thunderstorms are likely through many areas of central and northern B.C., including the Bulkley Valley, Cassiar Mountains, Dease Lake, Lakes District, Muncho Lake Park-Stone Mountain Park, Watson Lake and Williston areas.

The forecaster says the storm could produce strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.  It is reminding people to seek shelter indoors when they hear thunder, as lightning can be dangerous.