Heat warnings have been issued for large parts of Alberta, including Calgary and Edmonton, where temperatures are expected to rise into the thirties.

The Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued the warning on Saturday with temperatures ranging from 30 to 35 degrees Celsius and nighttime lows around 14 degrees Celsius in the forecast through at least midweek.

ECCC stated in the alert that daytime maximum temperatures will be near 30 degrees today, gradually rising to nearly 35 degrees Celsius by Wednesday in many areas of Alberta.

"It won't cool down overnight and in the middle of the day there will be little relief from the heat."

The affected areas extend across western Alberta from the northwestern tip of the province to just north of Lethbridge.

Anyone in the affected areas is encouraged to take precautions to protect themselves and others from the heat.

ECCC suggests considering rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day, taking frequent breaks from the heat, and drinking plenty of water.

Additionally, do not leave any person or pet in a closed vehicle for any period of time.

Be alert for symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, such as high body temperature, decreased sweating, confusion, fainting, and loss of consciousness.

ECCC stated: "Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature conditions are expected to pose a significant risk for heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion."

The extreme heat response for the city of Edmonton will take effect on Monday.

Air quality advisory

ECCC has also issued a warning about air quality in northern Alberta due to smoke from wildfires, causing reduced visibility in some areas.

As of 7:22 AM on Sunday, the warning covered most of the upper half of the province, barely missing the Edmonton area.

ECCC stated in the alert, "During dense smoke conditions, everyone is at risk regardless of their age or health. The fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk."

People in the affected areas are encouraged to limit their time outdoors and consider rescheduling or canceling sports, activities, and outdoor events.