Vancouverites could experience record-breaking temperatures this week as a recent heat wave shows no signs of letting up.
Environment Canada is expecting temperatures to hit 28 C at Vancouver International Airport on Thursday -- unusually warm for a city tempered by Pacific Ocean currents.
Thursday could be the hottest July 2 since record keeping began in 1937. The current record for July 2 was set 30 years ago, in 1985, when the temperature hit 27.5 C.
Vancouver’s daily highs in the first week of July are usually closer to 20 C.
Other B.C. cities are expected to be hotter than usual between Canada Day and July 6, including:
- Kelowna – between 31 C and 34 C
- Kamloops – between 29 C and 35 C
- Whistler – between 28 C and 34 C
The City of Vancouver cautions that the unusual heat can make people sick. The city recommends checking on elderly people and calling 911 if someone exhibits signs of heat-related illnesses.
The city also offered the following safety tips:
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat; lightweight, long-sleeved clothing; and sunscreen
- Avoid strenuous activity and exercise
- Visit an air-conditioned community centre or library
- Fill up your water bottle at one of our drinking fountains, including temporary fountains that are set up during heat waves
