Heat warnings issued for parts of Vancouver Island amidst wildfire smoke

Get ready, Vancouver Island—things are about to heat up.

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for several areas in BC this week, with the majority of inland Vancouver Island being affected.

From now until Wednesday, July 22nd, high heat is expected in the region, with temperatures in the low 30s in many areas on Vancouver Island.

Environment Canada is warning of potential risks to public health due to the high temperatures, with particular risk to seniors, people who live alone, people with pre-existing health conditions including diabetes, heart disease or respiratory disease, people with mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression or anxiety, people with substance use disorders and people with limited mobility.

The news comes as Environment Canada and firesmoke.ca both anticipate wildfire smoke blanketing much of Vancouver Island over the next several days, although air quality is expected to stay low risk.

In Victoria, temperatures are expected to reach 28°C on Wednesday, while Environment Canada is forecasting highs of 30°C on both Tuesday and Wednesday in Courtenay and Campbell River.

After Wednesday, things are expected to cool down gradually.

Environment Canada is reminding residents to stay safe during this period of elevated temperatures, and is urging residents to take precautions:

• Check on family, friends and neighbours, who are at higher risk, particularly if they live alone, to make sure they have a cool space
• Watch for the effects of heat illness: heavy sweating, rash, cramps, fainting, high body temperature and the worsening of some health conditions
• Keep your house cool. Turn on your air conditioning (if possible), block the sun by closing curtains or blinds, or relocate to a cooler location such as a basement or public cooling centre.
• Use fans to pull in cooler air from outdoors, but if you or someone you care for is experiencing symptoms of heat illness, find a cooler space. Fans alone cannot effectively lower core body temperature, especially for older adults.
• Seek out cool spaces like shaded parks, splash pads, misting stations, or air-conditioned public buildings
• Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day and wear lightweight, breathable clothing
• Never leave children, pets or dependent adults in parked cars — even with windows open

More information on how to protect yourself during hot weather is available by clicking here or by calling 8-1-1.