Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the west central region, as they are tracking a warm air mass that will be making its way to most of western Saskatchewan beginning on Friday afternoon.

The agency is forecasting temperatures to be in the mid-30s on Friday and into Saturday. Humidex values will approach the 40-degree mark Saturday afternoon. A return to normal temperatures is expected by Sunday morning.

They also want to remind people venturing outside Friday and Saturday that heat affects everyone. The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and people working or exercising outdoors.

Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and the worsening of some health conditions.

Drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place.

Check on older family, friends, and neighbours, and make sure they are cool and drinking water. Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.

Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature or humidity conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Please call HealthLine 811 for advice on health risks, symptoms, and precautions associated with heat.