Weekend heat brings concerns for wildfires and health

KAMLOOPS – Environment Canada has upgraded several special weather statements to heat warnings that now stretch across most of B-C’s southern Interior and south coast.

Daytime highs near 40 are expected now through Saturday in the Fraser Canyon, while temperatures in neighbouring areas are forecast to hit 35. Kamloops is expecting a high of 36 Friday and Saturday.

The director of fire centre operations for the B-C wildfire service says the heat is expected to contribute to “severe burning conditions” in B-C’s southern half.

Rob Schweitzer’s crews will be watching out for lighting this weekend, though next week could bring a measure of relief with cooler temperatures and some rain.

There are 242 fires burning across the province. 60 Evacuation Orders are in place, affecting more than 3,000 properities. The Kamloops Fire Centre is the busiest region with 80 active fires.

Ironically the smoke that has choked much of the South Thompson, could help to protect people from the sun. Environment Canada Meteorologist Doug Lundquist says smoke can block some of the heat. “It really does reduce our daytime highs. And it can, if it’s really thick, reduce it up to five degrees.”

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has urged people to remain on guard about the potentially deadly effects of extreme heat. A Smoky Skies Bulletin has been in place across the region for days.

(With files from CP)