(File photo/paNOW Staff)

By Joanie Olson

Summer Sun ahead

An all-time Canadian heat record could be broken next week

Jun 25, 2021 | 12:03 PM

Environment Canada is forecasting starting early next week hot, dry temperatures hitting the western provinces.

A large ridge of upper high pressure is building over Western Canada. This is creating a massive heat event affecting Saskatchewan and more so in Alberta and British Columbia.

“It does look to be a historic, event particularly in B.C., where our Canadian all-time record high is actually in jeopardy. The 45 degrees Celsius that was set in Midale and Yellow Grass [Saskatchewan] in 1937,” said Terri Lang, a meteorologist with Environment Canada.

“We [P.A. and area] are looking for highs to start reaching into the low thirties into the mid-thirties starting Monday and lasting for the bulk of the week. No chance of rain in there either, so hot and dry for that week.”

Lang said in these types of situations, we tend not to get wind because of the way the pattern is, and to expect drying conditions affecting the forest and fields. It also creates an increased risk to humans and animals.

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“It is going to be a prolonged event with the overnight lows going to be quite warm. That makes things a little bit difficult.” She said, “Health studies show that the longer the heat events go on, the harder it is on your health, particularly if you have no air conditioning or can’t get yourself cooled off at night,” said Lang.

The director of media relations for Parkland Ambulance in Prince Albert, Lyle Karasiuk said now is a great time to invest in central air conditioning if you have the means. He offers other ways to stay cool during the extreme heat.

“Visit a local store and pick up a window air conditioner, even a simple fan is great for lowering the heat. Closing blinds during the day and opening windows at night, relatively speaking to keep the heat at bay,” said Karasiuk.

Other ways to beat the heat are to take cool showers or cool baths for the little ones. Splash parks, the water park, and playground programs will be open.

Heat exhaustion is possible with the prolonged exposure so staying hydrated is important. Karasiuk said if you start to get dizzy or lightheaded, you are already a litre of fluid down.

“If you get cramps in fingers or legs, you are suffering from heat exhaustion. Get inside, cool off, drink some water, rest, have a light snack” he said. “Stay away from sugary drinks, pop is not a way to rehydrate. Some sports drinks may contain more sugar than is good for you. Good old-fashioned water is best.”

Do not leave small children or your pets in a locked car, even if it a short trip. Temperatures can be extreme in a matter of minutes and do significant harm to your children or pets.

Pets will need shade and plenty of water as well. Refresh their water throughout the day and be sure to provide them with shade to stay cool.

For those who suffer from the heat, Karasiuk also had some good news…. Christmas is only 183 days away.

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Joan.Olson@pattisonmedia.com