Press Releases

Chilliwack, BC: In response to the 2021 heat dome, multiple health sector partners and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) have developed a BC Provincial Heat and Response Alert System (BC HARS). Under this plan, local health authorities are to be prepared for the public health risks posed by extreme heat.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued heat warning for our region from today, July 25 – 29 or 30th. According to Environment Canada, our region is expecting daytime temperatures between 31 – 35 degrees Celsius and early morning low temperatures between 15 – 17 degrees Celsius.

The City of Chilliwack has temporarily open several locations as cooling centres in response for residents to find relief from the forecasted high temperatures. The following locations will be open:

Location: Evergreen Hall - 9291 Corbould Street (Slesse Room)
Date: Monday, July 25 – Friday, July 28, 2022*
Time: 8 am – 8 pm

Location: Sardis Sports Complex - 5725 Tyson Road (Lobby of Sheet #3)
Date: Monday, July 25, 2022
Time: 8 am – 4 pm
Date: Tuesday, July 26 – Friday, July 28, 2022*
Time: 8 am – 8 pm

*Should the heat warning remain in-place beyond Friday, the hours of operation will be extended into the weekend.

Pets that are crated or controlled on a short leash are welcome at the cooling centres.

To help reduce waste, filtered water fountains are available at either facility. Please bring your own water bottle to use the touchless, senor-activated bottle filler. Bottled water will also be available as needed.

An outdoor misting station has been opened at Tourism Chilliwack’s welcome centre (44150 Luckakuck Way). This area is also pet friendly and water will be available for pets.

Higher temperatures mean greater risk of heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of water, even before you feel thirsty, and seek out cool places. Call, text, or check in on those who may be more vulnerable to the heat, and never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle. When cooling centres aren’t available, residents are advised to seek out free air-conditioned spaces, such as local malls, libraries, and leisure centres, or stay cool at public spray parks. For more tips to stay cool, visit chilliwack.com/beattheheat.