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Heat and smoke heads up for region
Environment Canada has today issued Special Weather Statements for the East Kootenay warning of hot weather and smoky skies.
The hot weather warning covers the entire region while the air quality statement notes Invermere north as the area of most concern for smoke.
“The mercury is set to soar by mid-week over the southern interior as a strengthening ridge of high pressure draws hot air up from the western U.S. High temperatures today will reach the low thirties and creep up another degree or two on Tuesday. By Wednesday and Thursday daytime maximums will peak in the mid to high thirties with the potential for some communities to reach the 40 degree mark ; overnight lows will only drop to the upper teens to about twenty degrees,” Environment Canada stated.
Cooling is expected to begin Friday.
While the heat may be welcome for most, Environment and Climate Change Canada and Medical Health Officers are reminding people to take precautions to protect themselves from the heat, including:
• stay hydrated by drinking cold beverages, preferably water;
• spend time in an air-conditioned facility for at least several hours every day;
• avoid sunburn, stay in the shade and use sunscreen with spf 30 or
more;
• never leave children or pets alone in a parked car.
As fire volumes continue to climb, wildfire smoke is continuing to impact the province.
“During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour. Wildfire smoke is a natural part of our environment but it is important to be mindful that exposure to smoke may affect your health. People with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, infants, children and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure,” Environment Canada outlined.
Stay inside if you have breathing difficulties. Find an indoor place that’s cool and ventilated. Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help. If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, consider going to a public place (library, shopping mall, recreation centre) that is air-conditioned.
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