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Port Moody opens cooling centres after heat warning

Temperatures are expected to soar to 31C today and Monday
Cooling off by a fan getty image
Environment Canada is predicting a heat wave this weekend — here's one way to survive.

Port Moody has opened cooling centres and erected misting tents in three local parks after Environment Canada issued a heat warning for Sunday and Monday.

The warning calls for daytime temperatures in Metro Vancouver to reach the low 30s for both days.

“With elevated temperatures, the risk of heat related illnesses increases,” said a statement, adding effects of heat illness can include:

  • swelling
  • rash
  • cramps
  • fainting
  • heat exhaustion
  • heat stroke
  • the worsening of some health conditions

In response, Port Moody is opening the Civic Centre galleria at 100 Newport Dr. until 10 p.m., the public library at the same address until 5 p.m. and the nearby recreation complex until 9 p.m.

“A cooling centre is a public space set up temporarily as a place where people can sit down and take a break from the higher temperatures experienced outdoors or indoors in spaces without fans or air conditioning,” said a statement on the city’s website.

As well, misting tents have been set up in Pioneer Memorial Park (275 Knowle St.), Old Orchard Park and Rocky Point Park.

Port Moody Mayor Rob Vagramov said on his Facebook page the city’s spray parks will also stay open longer than usual, to 10 p.m.

Symptoms of heat illness include:

  • dizziness or fainting
  • nausea or vomiting
  • •apid breathing and heartbeat
  • extreme thirst
  • confusion or changes in behaviour

According to Environment Canada, temperatures are expected to reach 31C Sunday and Monday, before moderating to 22C on Tuesday, with a few showers.