A protracted heat wave expected to last most of the coming week got underway in Sooke on Sunday as provincial officials warned residents to brace for the potential effects of the sustained stretch of sweltering temperatures.
 
Heat warnings from Environment Canada blanketed much the southern coast of BC on Sunday, with more expected to take effect in the Interior and beyond on Monday.
 
Temperatures are forecast to soar into the high 30s in some regions, prompting Emergency Management Minister Bowinn Ma to urge residents to try and avoid the heat, drink water, and limit outdoor activity.
 
The ministry issued a statement on Saturday saying this week's expected heat wave is not slated to be as severe as the 2021 heat dome in which a reported 619 people died, but residents should be prepared for the potential health impacts of prolonged heat exposure.
 
Brieanna Charlebois.

Article abridged - non-Sooke related data removed and article reworded to name only Sooke. Sooke specific related news is all you'll find here.