UPDATE: JULY 6

A special hot weather statement continues for the entire Okanagan Valley today as an extended stretch of hot weather is expected.

Environment Canada issued the hot weather statement yesterday for the majority of Southern B.C.

害羞草研究所淎 ridge of high pressure will strengthen over Southern B.C. through Sunday, leading to several days of above seasonal temperatures,害羞草研究所� writes Environment Canada.

害羞草研究所淒aytime maximum temperatures will reach the mid to upper 30s through the weekend. Overnight conditions will also remain quite warm.害羞草研究所�

The heat combined with the warm and dry weather from June will also increase the fire danger rating across much of southern BC.

It's going to be a HOT one over the BC Interior today! Some good tips from to :

害羞草研究所� ECCC Weather BC (@ECCCWeatherBC)

害羞草研究所�-

ORIGINAL: JULY 5

Environment Canada says it害羞草研究所檚 going to be a hot, dry week throughout the Okanagan and Similkameen.

The weather agency says to expect an extended stretch of hot weather, with temperatures climbing into the upper 30s by the weekend.

A ridge of high pressure will strengthen over B.C. through Sunday, leading to several days of above seasonal temperatures.

Afternoon temperatures will rise a couple of degrees each day this week. Daytime maximum temperatures will reach the mid to upper 30 C range by Thursday, continuing through the weekend. Overnight conditions will also remain quite warm.

The hot spot in B.C. for the day will be Summerland in the Okanagan.

The heat combined with the warm and dry weather from June will increase the fire danger rating across much of southern BC. Current fire danger ratings are available through the B.C. Wildfire Service.

Environment Canada also warns everyone is at risk of heat-related illnesses, which are more likely during prolonged periods of hot weather.

Those most vulnerable to high temperatures include young children, the elderly who are housebound without air conditioning, those working or exercising in the heat, persons with chronic illnesses, heart and lung conditions, people living alone in un-air-conditioned homes and the homeless.

If you are taking medication, particularly for mental illness, heart disease or Alzheimer害羞草研究所檚 disease, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether it increases your health risk in the heat and follow their instructions.