As July nears an end, Osoyoos has gotten hot!
Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the South Okanagan that lasts until Sunday with daytime temperatures expected to reach as high as 41 degrees Celsius in that span.
During the heat wave, the hottest time of the day will be in the late afternoons and early evenings, while the coolest time of the day will be near sunrise.
Although the hot weather will make Osoyoos Lake that much more appealing to many, extreme heat can be dangerous and can affect everyone.
In order to stay safe, we’ve pulled together a few tips on how to beat the heat this summer!
Where to keep cool
During this week of extreme heat, the Town of Osoyoos will be opening cooling centres to the public — air-conditioned spaces where you can cool down on a hot day.
You do not need to register, pay, or show identification to visit a cooling centre. Seating, water, and access to washrooms are available at these locations. In Osoyoos, people will find cooling centres at:
- Sonora Community Center – 8505 68 Avenue: 8:30 am-8:00pm from Monday to Friday, Saturday 9:00 am-4:00 pm
- Sun Bowl Arena – 9301 Hummingbird Lane: 7:00am – 11:00 pm – Everyday, starting July 25
Other areas that may provide an opportunity to cool off include the Splash Park located on 89 Street and Kingfisher, as well as local beaches.
The Osoyoos Library is also available for people to visit during hot days and browse books or use the computer stations and wifi.
Hydrate
It is important to start swigging water even before you feel thirsty on days of extreme heat.
Keep drinking fluids throughout the day that will be lost to sweat in order to stave off dehydration.
It is best to drink water while also trying to avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can be dehydrating.
Get lakeside and find shade
Finding a way to get lakeside or near the water can be a great way to beat the heat.
Taking a dip can help cool you down and avoid heat-related illnesses. There are many public beaches such as Gyro Park and Lions Park that have designated swimming areas.
If you are outside and not near the water, make sure you seek out shade. Many of Osoyoos’ walkways and parks will have trees in the vicinity or offer shady picnic tables and benches.
Seek indoor activities
While Osoyoos is known for its lake life and outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do while staying inside as well.
The spectacular Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre is a state-of-the-art interpretive centre constructed into a hillside in Osoyoos, BC. Their extensive indoor exhibit creates a fun, interactive learning environment with hands-on displays, education stations and two multi-media theatre experiences.
Bowl 5 pins at Kobau Lanes for an afternoon or evening of fun! Kobau Lanes offers cosmic lights, and a licensed lounge area, and welcomes takeout from neighbouring restaurants in Osoyoos!
Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Osoyoos Museum as well, which houses a collection of over 4,000 pieces. Come immerse yourself in local history and deepen your connection with the community.
Osoyoos also has two amazing art galleries located right on Main Street, each with unique offerings so you can enjoy a full day exploring the Osoyoos art scene. Information about The Okanagan Art Gallery and The Art Gallery Osoyoos can be found by clicking the links.
Find a cold treat
Nothing quite goes down better on a hot day than a cold treat.
Osoyoos has many options for finding something refreshing that will appeal to your sweet tooth as well.
Stop by Scoopsies Treat Shop on Main Street or visit the Windmill Ice Cream Parlour at Rattlesnake Canyon to get some cold eats in a cone. Or head down to Gyro Park for another local favourite and grab some shaved ice from ICELAB
