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The blast of unusually warm weather hitting B.C.’s South Coast is drawing plenty of people outdoors this weekend.
Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting warmer than usual temperatures right across much of the province, with the possibility of it feeling like 29 C with humidity in parts of the Lower Mainland.
Vancouver Coastal Health is reminding people about the dangers of extreme heat, especially for the thousands of runners who will be sweating through Sunday’s BMO Vancouver Marathon.
“Although it’s not expected to reach the threshold for a heat warning in the B.C. Heat Alert Response System, marathon participants may not be acclimatized to running in heat, which can lead to heat-related illness and injury,” VCH said in a statement Friday.
For people who are set to take to the pavement, VCH recommends that you adapt to the conditions – slow your planned pace, drink plenty of water and electrolytes, consider applying ice packs to your body, avoid heavy layers and make sure you wear sunscreen.
Ahead of Sunday’s race, three-time Olympian Paul Williams explains that the sudden change in weather can be difficult for runners and athletes.
“We usually have a six to eight week transition, so the body gets used to, you know, a couple of degrees this week and degrees the next week,” he said.
“When we go up 10 degrees, like, this fast, our body is not acclimatized yet.”
VCH warns heat exhaustion and heat stroke can come on quickly, and if it does, you need to take the appropriate steps as soon as you can.
“If you are feeling overheated, some of the symptoms that you might notice could be things like dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, confusion or difficulty concentrating,” said Dr. Alexandra Choi, VCH medical health officer.
“If you do become confused or faint, it’s very important to stop the race and take actions to cool down,” she added.
VCH says in case of overheating, you can move into the shade, remove layers of clothing and pour water over your head and body to try to cool off as fast as possible.
