Heat warnings issued for much of B.C.'s South Coast

Heat warning in effect for Metro Vancouver A heat warning is in effect for Metro Vancouver as temperatures soar into the 30s is some parts of the region.

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The mercury is rising on B.C.'s South Coast, triggering a warning from Environment Canada to watch for signs of heat stroke and other weather-related illnesses.

The weather forecaster says temperatures in many parts of the region will reach daytime highs of at least 28 degrees early this week, with overnight lows of around 16 degrees.

That's led to heat warnings in several areas of Metro Vancouver, including Burnaby, New Westminster, Surrey, Langley, Richmond, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, West Vancouver and North Vancouver.

Environment Canada has also issued warnings for parts of the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island, including Victoria.

"These high temperatures are not out of the ordinary for this time of year, however, please be aware of the health risks associated with hot weather," the warnings read.

"Check on older family, friends and neighoburs. Make sure they are cool and drinking water."

People are urged to keep an eye out for swelling, rashes, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of existing health conditions.

The risk is higher for young kids, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and people who work or exercise outside. And as always, drivers are warned to never leave people or pets inside a hot car.

In Vancouver, officials have designated 10 community centres as cooling stations where people can take shelter from the sun and get a drink of water.

Conditions are fortunately not expected to be as intense as they have been this month in Quebec and Ontario, where heat-related complications are blamed for dozens of deaths.

But South Coast residents are still urged to take precautions to protect themselves. James Lu, medical health officer for Vancouver Coastal Health, said keeping hydrated is key.

"Drink plenty of water – don't wait until you feel you're thirsty," Lu said.

Anyone who can’t stay cool at home and can’t make it to one of Vancouver's cooling stations should find an air conditioned business or shopping mall, Lu added.

Environment Canada said the hot temperatures are expected to take a slight drop mid-week as an on-shore flow develops.

With files from CTV Vancouver's Maria Weisgarber