Heat wave hits Metro Vancouver

CTV Vancouver: Heat wave hitting Metro Vancouver Plenty of people will be enjoying the heat wave set to his Metro Vancouver, but the sunshine comes with its risks.

VANCOUVER -- The heat wave that has been sweeping the interior of British Columbia is expected to hit the coast this weekend, with temperatures and humidity in Metro Vancouver soaring on Friday and expected to stay in high for most of the next week.

Environment Canada forecasters predicted a high of 25 degrees for Vancouver Friday, with higher temperatures inland. Projected highs for the next six days are all 25 or higher, peaking at 27 on Wednesday.

Hot, dry, and windy conditions across the province have had wildfire crews on alert for the last week. They’re currently battling a growing blaze southeast of Tumbler Ridge that fire covers some 50 square kilometers, but officials say it’s expected to double in size.

Closer to home, the hot weather is causing a red algae bloom in Burrard Inlet. The phenomenon, commonly known as “red tide,” is not toxic. It’s the result of warming water in the inlet.

On its website, Environment Canada reminds the public to avoid intense outdoor work or exercise during extreme heat. If working in such heat is a necessity, be sure to drink plenty of liquids and take frequent breaks. The same advice applies to pets, who need shade and water to avoid heat stroke.

On Thursday, Nanaimo RCMP issued a reminder to the public not to leave pets in parked vehicles during hot weather. It cited an increase in calls reporting such situations in recent weeks.