As the weather is expected to heat up next week with temperatures in the mid-30s, it's likely the beaches will be packed with two North Okanagan pools closed.
The Lavington Outdoor Pool shut down for the season Friday, Aug. 22, a week earlier than scheduled, due to an unexpected mechanical problem.
On Friday, the District of Coldstream said its maintenance team discovered the pool's filtration system requires "significant" repair, and rather than risk further damage, the decision was made to close the pool for the season a week early.
"We know this is disappointing news, especially when the last week of the season is expected to be hot and sunny, but addressing the issue now will help avoid a longer closure in the future and ensure the pool remains the high-quality facility that the community has come to expect," the district said.
The pool staff were quick to identify the issue and prepare for a swift response, the district said.
"Their dedication to service and safety is a key part of what makes the pool such a cherished amenity."
Meanwhile, the Vernon Aquatic Centre at the Vernon Recreation Complex is for three weeks of annual maintenance.
The shutdown of the leisure pool, lap pool, sauna, hot tub, and fitness gym facilities runs Monday, Aug. 25, to Sunday, Sept. 14. The centre will reopen for usual business at 6:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15.
Environment Canada is forecasting high temperatures in Vernon next week. Sunday. Aug. 24, will be mainly sunny with a high of 35 C. That high will persist until Tuesday, when temperatures reach 36 C. Wednesday will see a high of 33 C before a slight cool-down to a 30 C high on Thursday.
Fortunately, the area is blessed with some world-class lakes, and that's where the District of Coldstream suggests people head to during this heat spell.
"We encourage you to cool off at one of our beautiful beaches, like Sovereign Park or Kal Beach," the district said.
Vernon's Lakeview Wading Pool is also up and running, and is expected to be open until after Labour Day, on Sept. 2, weather permitting.
After some , the Splashdown Vernon water park is now fully operating and open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. this weekend, and until 5 p.m. Aug. 25-31.
