Beat the heat this Calgary Stampede as mercury, UV index climb in southern Alberta

If you'reheading to the Calgary Stampede, youmaywant to avoid wearinglong-sleeved western shirts and other warm clothing, a meteorologist warns: temperatures are expected to hit the lowthirties on Friday and stay scorching forthe coming week.

"The hottest day of the next week is probably going to be Friday [July 6]," Environment Canada meteorologist Dan Kulak told CBC News.

"But that being said, I think we're looking at an extended period of temperatures above average for this time of year, the average for Calgary being about a high of about 22 C."

• See the latest Alberta weather, watches and warnings.

But high temperatures aren't the only thing to watch.

"The UV index for Calgary for Friday is forecast to be at 10 or very high, and tomorrow at 8 or very high," Kulak said.

"So really UV is something that we sometimes don't think about a lot, especially having fun at the Stampede or whatever you're doing outdoors in the middle of the summer.

"But keep in mind,UV is something that you do have to think about even year round but especially right now when we're at eightto 10."

Calgary Stampede parade watcherson Friday were dealing with the heat in their own ways.

• Calgary Stampede Parade: Check out these highlights or watch a replay of the whole thing

"That's what cowboy hats are for," Darcy Lundgren said. "Shade and a lot of water."

Other headgear was also popular.

"I am pretty sure this headdress will keep me safe," Emilio Jimmy John said with a smile, referring to hisceremonial Indigenous headdress with white feathers and red beading.

Stuart Brideaux, a public education officer with EMS in Calgary, says most people on the parade route seem to be prepared for the heat, but it's a good idea to watch for signs of problems.

"If you feeling chilly in this heat, you are having some early signs of heat exhaustion. That's one of the symptoms. If you are still sweating, that is a good sign because it means your body is still trying to cope with the heat," Brideaux said.

The emergency medicine department head with Alberta Health Services and the University of Calgary says heat symptoms may not always be obvious.

"This is a particularly worrisome day. A lot of people are outdoors and it's important to limit the amount of time you are in the outdoor, open air, hot weather. It is a dry climate so people can lose a lot of fluid through sweating and activity," Dr. Eddy Lang said.

"Limit the amount of time you spend in hot, sunlit areas. Wear a hat and sunglasses."

He said to bring SPF 15 sunscreen lotion with you, keep well hydrated and carry lots of water.

East of Calgary, weather is also on Environment Canada's radar, bringing with it some words of caution.

"There is a heat warning in effect for areas east of Calgary towards the Saskatchewan border, with highs as high as 36 C Friday," Kulak said.

"Don't overexert yourself outside. Seek shelter and shade and take breaks. Keep an eye on people around you, especially people who might not be able to help themselves efficiently."

• Stripes from spray sunscreen? The doctor's tips for sunny days

Kulak also reminds people that outdoor pets need shelter and water.

A serious sunburn early in life, especially for young kids, can increase the odds of cancer later in life, according to the Canadian Cancer Society.

But temporary relief may be on the way for some communities.

"No storms in the forecast, but some parts of Alberta will probably get some odd lightning strikes Friday night when the cooler air moves through," he said.

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With files from CBC's Anis Heydari