Photo: Darren Handschuh A heat wave gripping the Okanagan has melted a record that stood for more than a century.

For those who thought it was hotter than usual for a July 6, they were right.

A heat wave gripping the Okanagan has melted a record that stood for more than a century.

According to officials with Environment Canada, the mercury hit a blistering 36.9C Thursday, breaking the 1906 record of 36.1C.

The high for today is expected to peak at 36C and then things will cool down slightly.

Saturday is expected to be around 33C, while Sunday will see temperatures of around 31 degrees. Monday is expected to come in at 28C with a chance of showers. The mercury will then return to the low 30s for next few days.

The heat wave has prompted Environment Canada to issue a special weather statement.

A ridge of high pressure will persist over the southern BC Interior leading to a couple more days of above-seasonal temperatures.

The heat combined with the warm and dry weather from June will increase the fire danger rating across much of southern BC.

Heat-related illnesses are more likely during prolonged periods of hot weather. Everyone is at risk of heat-related illness. Those most vulnerable to high temperatures include young children, the elderly, those working or exercising in the heat, persons with chronic illnesses, heart and lung conditions, people living alone in un-air-conditioned homes, and the homeless.