By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Be safe during heat wave this weekend

Jul 5, 2018 | 3:42 PM

While parts of eastern Canada are dealing with a deadly heat-wave that’s killed 33 people, portions of Alberta are set to face some warmer temperatures of their own.

In Red Deer, the mercury is projected to hit 32 degrees Celsius on Friday, with a dip over the weekend to the mid-20s before jumping back up to 28 degrees on Monday. However, the humidity could make it feel warmer and the UV index is expected to be at 10 or ‘very high,’ according to Environment Canada.

Dr. Mohammed Mosli, a medical officer of health with AHS Central Zone, says it’s vital that Albertans are prepared for when the heat hits.

“Always stay hydrated, always protect yourself from sun exposure, wear long sleeves, light-voloured clothes, a brimmed hat, minimum SPF 30 sunscreen to protect your skin, and we recommend people take frequent breaks when they’re outside for long periods of time,” Mosli says. “If it’s possible, reschedule activities that expose people to hot temperatures.”

At the end of the day, anyone is susceptible to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, according to Mosli.

Individuals aged 55 and over

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Symptoms include fainting, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, loss of consciousness, and palpitations. Sweating very little is also a sign that you are likely dehydrated.

In addition to the heat forecast for this weekend, Friday in particular could be a stormy one in parts of central Alberta.

According to the Prairie and Arctic Storm Prediction Centre (PASPC), a low pressure system will develop over the Prairies potentially triggering isolated severe thunderstorms. An area from south of Edmonton to north of Red Deer could see thunderstorms, specifically “high based supercells”, where wind will be the main threat, the PASPC says. 

There are currently four weather alerts in effect in Alberta — all related to the heat — to the south and west of Red Deer.

More information on staying healthy during the heat is at AHS.ca/heat.