Richmond is about to get hot this weekend, but the city will not be implementing its plan for heat waves... yet.
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement in the early hours of Thursday to warn of "unseasonably hot weather" from Friday to Tuesday.
Temperatures are expected to reach the high 20s to low 30s during the daytime, which will be 10 to 15 degrees Celsius above seasonal values, while overnight lows will be five to 10 degrees above seasonal values.
"The highest temperatures are expected on Sunday and Monday," reads the statement.
High temperatures over the weekend are expected to cause freezing levels to rise and possible local flooding, and there is also a risk of an increase in heat-related illnesses.
However, Environment Canada made it clear that the heat will not be as bad as the 2021 "heat dome." The deadly heatwave in 2021 killed an estimated 10 people in Richmond.
In a statement to the Richmond News, City of Richmond Spokesperson Clay Adams said the city will be monitoring Environment Canada's forecasts and "will activate plans based on needs."
As of now, the city will not be putting its Heat and Poor Air Quality Emergency Operations Plan, which was updated earlier this year, into action.
According to Adams, level 1 of the city's plan to tackle extreme heat is triggered by daytime forecasts of more than 29 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days, in addition to evening forecasts of more than 16 degrees Celsius.
"Based on current forecasts, we do not anticipate hitting those marks over the coming days," he said.
"However, we encourage everyone to be vigilant about their own safety and the safety of friends and neighbours as temperatures climb to (unseasonable) highs."
For community members looking for ways to stay hydrated and cool during this weekend, a map of water fountains, waterplay areas, outdoor shelters, community centres and libraries can be found here.
Richmond residents are also encouraged to make a plan in case of a heat event, such as finding alternative shelter in case their homes get too hot, preparing their homes by installing air conditioners or window coverings, and keeping digital thermometers around to measure temperature accurately. Rooms that reach 31 degrees Celsius or higher are dangerous for vulnerable members of the community.
For more resources and tips on staying safe during a heat event, click here.
