Area beaches are set to be packed during the upcoming long weekend with temperatures forecast to be considerably above normal for this time of year. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)
ROUND TWO

Heat warning issued for Nanaimo, Oceanside

Jul 28, 2021 | 7:39 AM

NANAIMO — Here we go again, the mid-Island is heating up.

Environment Canada issued a heat warning for eastern Vancouver Island, including Nanaimo and Oceanside, the Sunshine Coast and Gulf Islands on Tuesday, July 27. It will extend through until at least Sunday, July 31.

The warning indicates temperatures seven to ten degrees above normal are expected through the remainder of the week and into the upcoming B.C. Day long weekend.

“A building ridge of high pressure will lead to rising temperatures for the remainder of this week,” the warning read. “Daytime highs near 30 degrees Celsius combined with overnight lows in the mid to upper teens are forecast [Wednesday] through Sunday morning with slightly cooler daytime temperatures expected near the water.”

Humidity will contribute to the high temperatures, with conditions feeling more like the mid-30’s.

Risks of high heat are especially dangerous for young children, seniors, people with chronic illness or pregnant women. Workers outside for long periods of time are also advised to take extra care.

People are also reminded not to leave pets or children inside parked cars, as the interiors can warm rapidly in hot, sunny conditions.

Nanaimo airport’s weather monitoring station hasn’t recorded any measurable rain since June 15, a record stretch for the area.

The region was also subject to record heat in June and early July with Nanaimo coming within a tenth of a degree of the highest temperature ever recorded.

Inland Vancouver Island is under a special weather statement, warning of high temperatures. However, forecasted daytime highs are only expected to be three to five degrees above normal.

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