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How to stay cool in Richmond during extreme heat

A heat warning is in place for Metro Vancouver from Sunday through the middle of the week.
Kid in front of a fan
A heat warning is in place for Metro Vancouver.

Community members are asked to stay hydrated and watch out for heat-related illnesses as temperatures climb to a new high.

Environment Canada issued a heat warning earlier for July 7 through the middle of the week, with daytime temperatures to hover around the low to mid 30's around Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley.

Temperatures near the water will be in the high 20's during the day.

In a statement to the Richmond News, City of Richmond spokesperson Clay Adams confirmed the city does not expect temperatures in excess of 30C to hit Richmond.

"As a result, the city will not reach the criteria for a heat warning so no formal activation is planned for the time being," he explained.

According to Weatherhood, East Richmond is expected to be the hottest neighbourhood in Richmond, with temperatures higher than 30C forecasted for Sunday to Tuesday. 

Tuesday is predicted to be the hottest day, with temperatures in East Richmond reaching a high of 34C and 29C in the rest of the city.

Temperatures are expected to cool down by the latter half of the week but the timing is uncertain, according to Environment Canada.

Tips for staying cool

Richmondites are advised to keep an eye on family members, neighbours, pets and others. Children, pets and other people susceptible to heat illnesses should not be left inside parked vehicles.

Tips for managing the heat include staying hydrated, keeping blinds or curtains closed to reduce sun exposure and watching for symptoms of heatstroke.

Symptoms of heat illness include "heavy sweating, rash, cramps, fainting, high body temperature and the worsening of some health conditions," according to Environment Canada's heat warning.

"Buildings such as shopping centres, community centres and libraries offer respite from the heat, and the city’s waterparks and outdoor pools are in operation," Adams added.

A full list of water fountains and places to stay cool around the city is available here. For more tips on beating the heat, click here.

Community members can also call HealthLinkBC at 811 for any questions about heat-related illnesses.

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