Early season B.C. heat wave: High health risk for parts of Metro Vancouver
CTV
A late spring heat wave already anticipated to be record-breaking is expected to push the mercury into potentially dangerous territory for those with risk factors in Metro Vancouver as doctors warn hospitals are already “on red alert.”
A late spring heat wave already anticipated to be record-breaking is expected to push the mercury into potentially dangerous territory for those with risk factors in Metro Vancouver as doctors warn hospitals are already “on red alert.”
With forecasted temperatures from the high 20s to low 30s, health officials are urging those at highest risk to be extremely cautious since our bodies haven’t had time to gradually acclimate to warmer temperatures, as they usually do.
“There is some concern since this early in the season most people really aren't expecting this kind of heat and we need to let people know to be prepared,” said Dr. Michael Schwandt, a medical health officer with Vancouver Coastal Health.
Anyone who’s had heat stroke in the past, those with heart or lung issues, or on certain medications are most at risk. Seniors, people with disabilities, children and pregnant people, and people with substance use disorder are also among those likely to be disproportionately impacted. http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/preparing-for-heat-events
Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a Special Weather Statement Wednesday afternoon, but said the temperatures fall just short of the criteria for a formal heat warning and the emergency health responses that would follow.
“We're going to see lots of broken records for daytime maximums over the course of the coming days, particularly Saturday, Sunday, and maybe Monday,” said preparedness meteorologist, Armel Castellan, describing the incoming weather as significant heat for this time of year.
“The overnight temperatures are going to recover, so we're going to be below heat warning criteria,” he said.”
