Search and rescue teams across the Lower Mainland, including Ridge Meadows, are warning hikers planning to explore the backcountry this weekend to pay close attention to the weather forecast.
This comes after Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the BC Wildfire Service issued a weather notification of increased wildfire activity through Saturday.
The warning, by BC AdventureSmart and posted to the search and rescue team’s Facebook page, noted the combination of hot temperatures, dry conditions, and thunderstorms, could mean an elevated risk of new wildfire starts from lightning, in addition to strong winds which can rapidly spread existing fires.
Poor air quality can cause headaches, coughing, eye irritation, and reduced exercise tolerance.
Those with asthma or other respiratory conditions should carefully consider reducing strenuous outdoor activity if smoke conditions worsen.
If you see smoke or a wildfire, report it immediately to the BC Wildfire Service at: 1-800-663-5555, or *5555 from a cell phone.
High temperatures are also expected this weekend, said the BC AdventureSmart post.
Heat-related illness and dehydration are among the most common reasons hikers require search and rescue during the summer months, it said.
The agency is advising hikers to bring more water than you think you’ll need, replenish electrolytes on longer hikes, take regular breaks in the shade, and don’t ignore early warning signs such as excessive fatigue, dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps, or confusion.
“Once you’re dehydrated, it becomes much harder to recover while continuing your hike,” read the post.
Thunderstorms are also especially dangerous in alpine terrain.
BC AdventureSmart is advising hikers whose objective is to reach exposed ridges or summits, to consider changing their plans or choosing a lower-elevation hike.
“Lightning can strike well ahead of the rain, and if you hear thunder, you’re already close enough to be struck,” the agency said.
If you’re caught in a thunderstorm, you should descend immediately from summits and ridgelines; avoid isolated trees, cliff edges, and bodies of water, and spread your group out.
Wait at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before continuing on your hike.
“Stay safe this weekend. Make conservative decisions, HAVE AN EXIT PLAN, and remember that turning around is always the right decision if conditions change.”
To learn more about lightning safety go to:https://youtu.be/zz2nVOcxaPA?si=MSmAPkV5gac8z0mU.