Monday June 21, 2021 | GREATER VICTORIA, BC
by Mary P Brooke, B.Sc., Editor | Island Social Trends
Summer has arrived with a blast of hot air! Yesterday the summer solstice was at 8:51 pm PDT — the official start of summer! That Sunday was in itself a very warm day on south Vancouver Island.
This year Father’s Day happened to have fallen on the first day of summer. The weather provided many outdoor opportunities for families and friends to get together.
Weather forecasters are showing temperature anywhere from two to 12 degrees above the seasonal norm for the rest of this week in Greater Victoria. For today, Environment Canada says day-time maximum temperatures will remain 5 to 10 degrees above seasonal today and tomorrow at locations away from the immediate coast.
On Wednesday and Thursday the Humidex factor (what it will feel like outdoors) will reach at least 30°C. The ridge associated with the warm temperatures will shift inland resulting in slightly cooler temperatures on Wednesday; the ridge will rebuild from Thursday onward and herald more dry and hot conditions through the weekend. | Links to west shore and Victoria weather pages
UV rays can cause damage:
Yesterday the UV rating was very high at 9. Today it’s at 8 mid-day, and will reach 9 again, says The Weather Network.
Sunscreen is recommended for health safety when the UV rating is so high. Cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses. Unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn quickly. UV rays can cause sunburns, eye cataracts, skin aging and skin cancer. | Interpretation of the UV Index [The Weather Network]
Stay hydrated, stay indoors:
Safety recommendations during hot weather also include staying hydrated and avoiding direct sunshine at the peak of the day, and seeking shade when sensible.
Be sure to drink adequate amounts of water during summer heat. Drinking sugary sodas or drinks is not the same as drinking straight water. Caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee require water to be metabolized, which can impact the amount of hydration your body has when you’re in a hot room or outdoor area.
The Juan de Fuca Emergency Program suggests avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak hours of sun (from 10 am to 4 pm) and to try to rest often in shaded areas.
Be safe in the hot weather this week: Drink plenty of fluids Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day Wear light, loose clothing, and a hat Apply sunscreen Take frequent breaks in cool or shady areas.
In the west shore, Langford Fire Rescue suggests:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day
- Wear light, loose clothing, and a hat
- Apply sunscreen
- Take frequent breaks in cool or shady areas
Air conditioning and windows:
If you have air conditioning, it’s wise to stay indoors at the heat of the day, or in the evening if a room or house has accumulated heat during the day. Of course there’s the old tried-and-true method of keeping your window coverings closed but windows open for a cross-breeze all day.
===== LINKS:
Island Social Trends WEATHER PAGE – quick links to The Weather Network pages for Langford, Colwood, Sooke, Metchosin, Victoria
UV Index Interpretation – Environment Canada
