A fire ban has been issued for Lethbridge's river valley amid hotter temperatures in the forecast. (File photo: Julia Fletcher)

By Justin Goulet

Fire ban issued for Lethbridge’s river valley

Jul 21, 2023 | 10:41 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A fire ban is in effect on all open fires in Lethbridge’s river valley.

Officials said high heat, low humidity and wind gusts forecast over the next several days will lead to extreme fire conditions.

As of the morning of Friday, July 21, 2023, Lethbridge is forecast to see a high of 33 degrees Celsius, followed by a high of 35 degrees Celsius on Saturday, and a high of 34 degrees Celsius on Sunday.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a heat warning for most of southern Alberta, including in Lethbridge. The agency has advised individuals to consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler times of the day and take frequent breaks from the heat in cooled, indoor spaces where possible.

People are encouraged to drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated. The agency said citizens should monitor for symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, such as high body temperature, lack of sweat, confusion, fainting, and unconsciousness.

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A list of the areas impacted by the heat warning is available online from Environment and Climate Change Canada.

TIPS TO BEAT THE HEAT

In light of the heat warning, the City of Lethbridge has issued a reminder about new drinking water stations recently set up across the city. They are located at Nicholas Sheran Park, Legacy Park, Henderson Lake Park, and in Galt Gardens.

READ MORE: City of Lethbridge installing water fountains at four city parks

Additionally, officials noted that spray parks in Lethbridge are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and there are some local service organizations available to help vulnerable members of the community who do not have access to shelter, including:

• Lethbridge Stabilization Centre and Shelter
• Wood’s Homes Youth Connections
• YWCA Harbour House
• Sik-Ooh-Kotoki Friendship Society
• Streets Alive Mission
• Lethbridge Public Library Main Branch
• Lethbridge Soup Kitchen
• SAGE Clan

Officials added that some local service organizations have been preparing for the heatwave by collecting water bottles for distribution to those who need it.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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