A Special Weather Statement has been issued by Environment Canada warning of unseasonably hot weather developing over the BC Interior beginning on Friday (May 12), including across the East Kootenay.

With the incoming heat comes the increased potential for flooding and fires, as well as health issues.

With unseasonably hot weather forecast for most parts of British Columbia this weekend and into next week, the B.C. government is once again encouraging residents to stay informed about potential risks.

The forecast heat is expected to accelerate the snowmelt at higher elevations, which will increase pressure on the province’s rivers and streams.

“Daytime highs rising into the low to mid 30s over the central and southern interior while northern regions will see temperatures reaching the mid to high 20s. Overnight and early morning lows are expected to be in the low to mid-teens. The BC Interior will experience unseasonably hot weather beginning on Friday,” Environment Canada reported.

“The highest temperatures are expected from Sunday through Tuesday. Daytime highs will be 10 to 15 degrees Celsius above seasonal values while overnight lows will be five to 10 degrees above what is normally experienced this time of year. Freezing levels will rise throughout this event leading to increased snowpack melting with possible local flooding due to high stream flow levels.

“With elevated temperatures, the risk of heat related illnesses will increase. While the developing heat conditions may result in daily temperature records being broken, it must be emphasized that the expected hot conditions will not approach those reached during the “Heat Dome” of late June 2021.”

The River Forecast Centre (RFC) is monitoring weather patterns and river conditions, and the River Forecast Centre website has updated flood warning and advisory notifications, including a map of areas of heightened flood risk.

The RFC is forecasting increasing flooding hazards in the B.C. Interior over the weekend and through next week due to rapid snowmelt. Key areas of concern include the Fraser River from Prince George through the Fraser Canyon, Cariboo Mountains, North Thompson, South Thompson, Shuswap, Similkameen, Kootenay and Skeena regions.

People are advised to keep away from river edges and shorelines. During periods of high flow, riverbanks may be unstable and more prone to sudden collapse. Bodies of water also remain cool at this time of year and may pose a risk of hypothermia and cold-water shock to people when they are exposed to cold water for a prolonged time.

And from water to fire; as of Thursday, May 11, there were 45 active wildfires in the province. Compared to the 20-year average, the number of wildfires experienced this spring is normal. While the number of hectares burned is four times higher than normal, 85% are a result of three wildfires in northeastern B.C.

At this time of year, the main cause of wildfires is human activity. The BC Wildfire Service encourages everyone to exercise caution when conducting any open burning or participating in activities that could cause a wildfire.

“At this time of year, communities throughout B.C. are at risk for floods and wildfires,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests. “Members of the BC Wildfire Service, the River Forecast Centre and others are working hard to keep people safe. I encourage everyone to remain vigilant to the risks that may affect them and to take all recommended precautions, such as a household plan and grab and go bags.”

The province is encouraging people in areas prone to flood and wildfire to remain vigilant and have a household plan in place. This includes putting together a grab-and-go bag that includes essentials, such as a first-aid kit, food and water, and important documents, such as insurance papers and birth certificates. People are also encouraged to connect with neighbours, register with Emergency Support Services and stay connected with their First Nation or local government for updates and advisories.

Heat is another concern.

The unseasonably hot weather may feel intense to people who have not acclimatized to warmer temperatures. It’s important that people keep themselves and others safe over the next several days. The province’s Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide has information to help people prepare for heat and tips on how to stay safe.

“As we approach the summer months and prepare for warmer weather, I want to emphasize the importance of staying safe and informed,” said Adrian Dix, Minster of Health. “It is vital that individuals take appropriate precautions, such as listening to alerts or warnings, staying hydrated, seeking shade and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak heat hours. It is equally important to check on vulnerable individuals, such as our neighbours, the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.”

People are encouraged to prepare a heat plan, including identifying cool zones inside and outside of homes (community centres, libraries, etc.), knowing ways to cool down, such as taking cool baths or showers and drinking plenty of water, and identifying vulnerable family members and neighbours who are susceptible to heat who should be checked on.

“High daytime temperatures this early in the spring can lead to risk of heat-related illness. While we are expecting it to cool off at night, some people may still be at risk,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer. “Ways to stay safe include going out in the morning or evening when it is cooler, taking water with you and drinking frequently and avoiding heavy exertion during the hottest times of the day.”

With elevated temperatures, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases. The most concerning heat illnesses include heat stroke and heat exhaustion, which can come on quite rapidly. Watch for symptoms of heat illness, including dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, confusion, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst, and decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.

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