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Heat Wave: Stay Cool Alberni Valley

heat wave popsicle alberni valley

It’s no secret that the Alberni Valley is often one of the warmest regions on Vancouver Island. Our hottest June on record was in 2017 when we hit a scorching 34.7 ˚C. Incredibly, this week we are expected to reach a new all-time high of 42 degrees Celsius! While we love the heat and all things summer, it’s important to practice these tips to ensure you stay safe and comfortable. Plus some of our favorite places in the Alberni Valley to cool down and beat the heat!

Important Tips for Staying Safe and Cool!

  1. Stay Hydrated. Listed first because it’s very important! Drinking water (and sweating) is the key to maintaining a regulated body temperature.
  2. Avoid the Hottest Times of the Day. The air absorbs and holds heat over time, making the hottest part of the day generally between 2pm – 6 pm.  Staying indoors and away from direct sun during these times will help you avoid over heating.
  3. Wear a Hat. Choose breathable, loose fitting clothing and footwear, and a hat to provide shade and UV protection where you need it most. Don’t forget sunglasses to protect against glare (and less squinting means less wrinkles!)
  4. Sunscreen. If planning to spend any time in the sun, be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen.  We recommend a minimum SPF 30, and remind  you to be thorough,  don’t miss ears, feet, etc.
  5. Stock up on Popsicles!  While hydration is most important, these are a fun way to help bring down internal body temperature for every age.

 

Our Favourite Spots to Beat the Heat in the Alberni Valley

Visit a Spray Park

For families with younger children there is nothing better than a good spray park! Use the push the “start” button to activate the sprays.
List provided by Alberni Valley.

Roger Creek Park (Gertrude & Pemberton Street): The surrounding trees provide plenty of shade and relief from the sun and a splash in the spray park will help cool you down.

Blair Park (5095 Pineo Road): Cool down at this large water park and have fun with the play features. Tents have been set up to provide additional shade and shelter from the sun.

Kiwanis Park (3627 16th Avenue): Enjoy the cool water from this water park.

 

Sproat Lake Provincial Park

Location: 15 minutes west of Port Alberni on Highway 4, BC (map)

A favourite of locals and visitors alike, Sproat Lake Provincial Park has plenty to offer for everyone. Watersports abound from swimming to waterskiing and if the wind is up even windsurfing! (source)

Taylor River Rest Area

Source: 604 NOW

Location: 36 minutes west of Port Alberni on Highway 4, BC (map)

A hidden gem not to be missed. Located 40km west of Port Alberni this swimming spot is easy to miss. Visitors should take a narrow road off the highway and follow it all the way to the banks of Taylor River. With beautiful fresh, clean water and a unique turquoise hue, you will not regret the drive. (source)

 

There are many spots around the Alberni Valley to cool down and take a break from the hot weather! Please remember to stay safe during this record breaking heat! For more local resources, visit Alberni Valley Emergency Program  

If you have questions about heat-related illnesses, contact HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.
If you are experiencing symptoms for heat illness and need medical assistance, call 9-1-1.

For more information, visit: www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/heat-related-illness.