Penticton opens cooling centres as heat wave settles in

Photo: Contributed

Extreme high temperatures are expected this week and the City of Penticton is extending hours at several facilities starting today.

“We want to ensure everyone is safe during this period and providing cooling centres is a way to help residents and visitors beat the heat,” says Anthony Haddad, the director of the City’s Emergency Operations Centre.

“We’re extending the hours at civic facilities to assist people who need a place to cool down.”

The extended hours are at the following facilities:

• South Okanagan Events Centre (835 Eckhart Avenue) will be open between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Penticton Community Centre (325 Power Street) will be open between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.
• Penticton Public Library auditorium and lobby (785 Main Street) will be open 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Penticton Seniors’ Drop-in Centre (2965 Main Street) will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Water will be available at those locations as well, and bylaw enforcement and community safety officers will be carrying water for those in need

More community resources and tips on dealing with the heat are available here.

Residents and visitors who may have questions about available resources can call also call 250-490-2400 for assistance finding resources.

The City has activated its Emergency Operations Centre if further response is required.

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Interior British Columbia. Temperatures in Penticton are expected to reach 38 C this week.