Unhoused residents who have nowhere to escape the heat can get on board for some cool air.

A Cooling Bus started today, July 19 for Vernon's homeless needing a break from the heat.

It is running from 12 to 8 p.m., while the temperature is predicted to be 35 degrees or more.

And according to Environment Canada, that is the case Saturday (36 degrees Celsius), Sunday (38) and Monday (40).

A heat warning has been issued for the entire Southern Interior as hot conditions continue into early next week.

"Heat affects everyone, but the risks are greater for: seniors, people who live alone, people with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or respiratory disease, people with mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression, or anxiety, people with substance use disorders, people with limited mobility," according to Environment Canada. "Check on family, friends and neighbours, who are at higher risk, particularly if they live alone, to make sure they have a cool space."

To find the Cooling Bus, call the shelter to arrange pick up at 250-241-2217, or if you don't have a phone go to the shelter and ask for a pickup. You can also watch for the bus as it drives through parks and alleys and around town.

Environment Canada also advises: "Drink plenty of water regularly, even before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration."

Vernon has already broken several heat records this month and tied a record of 36.7 for July 18, set in 1960.