For the second straight day, a heat record has been set in Vernon. 

The temperature rose to 36.3 C on Friday, Aug. 2, surpassing the old record of 35.9 C set in 2009.

Vernon was one of 14 communities in B.C. to set a new heat record on Friday, including Princeton.

On Thursday, a 117-year-old Vernon heat record was broken when temperatures reached 36.9 C.

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for much of B.C. from now until the end of the weekend, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-30s Saturday and Sunday before dropping to the lower 30s and upper 20s Monday and Tuesday. 

The weather agency notes a strong ridge of high pressure is building over the region, causing hot temperatures during the day, with overnight lows staying in the high teens. 

"The above average heat will persist until the end of the weekend when the temperatures are expected to cool below warning criteria," Environment Canada states. 

"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."

During the heat wave, people are urged to check on their family, friends and neighbours, particularly if they live alone, to make sure they have a cool space. 

Early signs of heat illness include feeling unwell, fatigue, thirst, headache or unusually dark urine. Environment Canada says these symptoms can rapidly evolve into life-threatening emergencies. 

People working in the heat are advised to take regularly scheduled breaks in a cool or shaded place. 

The weather agency reminds people to never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle. 

"If you are in an overheated area, seek a cool place such as a tree-shaded area, splash pad, misting station, or air-conditioned spot like a public building," Environment Canada stated.