On the heels of record-breaking daily high temperatures, Vancouver Islanders face warmer than usual weather this week.
Temperatures will continue to "remain well above seasonal" into mid-week for east and inland Vancouver Island with cooler temperatures overnight, according to an Environment Canada statement issued early Tuesday (Aug. 26).
The extra warm conditions are expected to persist from inland Greater Victoria, up the east coast from Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay. Cloud cover is expected Thursday.
The hot late-August weather has several local emergency services reminding residents to keep cool, and watch for the effects of heat illness: heavy sweating, rash, cramps, fainting, high body temperature and the worsening of some health conditions.
Never leave susceptible people, particularly children, or pets inside a parked vehicle.
While it’s not quite hot enough to open a cooling centre, there are a lot of ways to beat the heat, Central Saanich Fire Department reminded Peninsula residents on social media. Suggestions include heading for the beach and cooler ocean air, the new splash pad at Centennial Park or air-conditioned public spaces such as libraries.
“Relax in shaded parks and adjust those times spent outside,” the fire service reminded. “Stay cool, drink lots of water, and don’t forget to check on those around you.”
Find more tips at www.centralsaanich.ca/getprepared.
The weather comes on the heels of record-breaking heat Sunday (Aug. 24), according to data held by Environment Canada.
The Malahat area broke the newest record on the Island, hitting 30.2 C, topping the 29.8 daily record set in 2022. Nanaimo tied the oldest record, hitting a high of 33.3 set in 1958.
Campbell River, Courtenay and Comox all flirted with 2016 records, with Campbell River shading the old 30 C temperature, hitting 30.2. Comox and Courtenay both tied the 2016 record of 30.3.
The heat coincided with a new wildfire discovered Aug. 24 south of Nanaimo. The 8.6-hectare fire was classified as being held as of Tuesday morning.
