Record heat on the way

THOMPSON-OKANAGAN – Records could fall this weekend as the hot, dry weather trend continues. The expected heat wave will last for at least the next 7 days.

In Kamloops temperatures are expected to reach 37 Celsius on Saturday and then around 38 C for the next three days. Record high temperatures are currently 38.6 C for Saturday, July 12, 39.4 C for July 13 and 38.3 C for July 14.

Vernon could see high temperature records fall as well with the mercury set to reach 36 C on Saturday and 37 C on Sunday. Monday will be a bit cooler at 35 C and a 30 per cent chance of showers before jumping back into the high 30's for the rest of the week. The record high temperatures are 38.3 for Saturday, July 12, 36.1 C for July 13 and 36.1 C for July 14.

Kelowna temperatures will be very similar over the next few days with highs of 36 C and 37 C on the weekend and 35 C with a 30 per cent chance of showers on Monday. Highs of 36-38 C are forecast for Tuesday through Thursday as well. Record temperatures for Kelowna are 37.7 C on July 12, 36.1 C on July 13 and 35.6 on July 14.

In Penticton highs are also expected to reach 36 C and 37 C on the weekend with a high of 35 C and a 30 per cent chance of showers forecast for Monday. Record temperatures are 37.2 C for July 12, 38.3 C for July 13 and 36.7 C on July 14.

Along with the heat and sun comes a high UV index, which means people should take extra precautions when out in the sun.

The wildfire danger rating is high to extreme throughout much of the region.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Jennifer Stahn at jstahn@infonews.ca or call 250-819-3723. To contact an editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.