The City of Richmond is providing several options for Richmondites to keep cool after a heat warning was issued for the upcoming weekend.
After Saturday’s shower broke Metro Vancouver’s 52-day drought, Environment Canada has issued yet another heat warning for several regions across B.C.’s south coast including Richmond.
The weather agency reported on Tuesday that temperatures from Thursday through Sunday are expected to reach into the upper 30s during the day and overnight temperatures between 16 and 19C.
Medical officers in both the Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) and Fraser Health regions are urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves during the heat, especially those with health risks associated with high temperatures.
Richmond’s Cambie and South Arm Community Centres, as well as the Minoru Centre for Active Living are providing spaces for people to take refuge from the heat.
Four Richmond Public Libraries, Brighouse Cultural Centre and the Richmond Art Gallery and Museum are also open for walk-ins.
Shade tents at Paulik, Steveston, Dover and McLean parks will also be set up.
Spray parks will be operating at Steveston, King George and Burkeville parks, and misting stations across Richmond will also be set up.
Symptoms of heat-related illness can include thirst, dizziness, confusion, weakness and fainting or collapsing, including loss of consciousness, according to health authorities.
Everyone is urged to drink plenty of water, seek out air-conditioned spaces and avoid spending extended periods of time in the sun.
Anyone showing symptoms of chest pain, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath should call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department.
- with files from Stefan Labbe
