Environment Canada is predicting a potentially 'historic heatwave' conveniently falling in line with summer vacation for most students across the province.

Cochrane is forecasted to reach a high of 25 degrees Celcius this afternoon which is slightly above seasonal for our area, but compared to what's on the horizon, today might actually feel cool.

"Normals for this time of year are highs of around 21 and lows of about 7," says Environment Canada Meteorologist, Rob Griffith.

Cochrane is headed for a long stretch of temperatures in the 30’s; that's well above our seasonal norms for this time of year.

Temperatures are forecasted to steadily climb across Alberta and the Prairies next week, and Griffith says that for now, there's no end in sight. He says that the "prolonged extreme heat has the potential to be extremely dangerous."

"With the long duration of this event and the intensity of the heat, it's going to be important to take it seriously," says Griffith. "People should really be taking precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones."

Griffith strongly advises avoiding outdoor activities during peak daily highs. He adds that Alberta isn't going to see much relief even into the evening or overnight hours.

"We may not see too many cooler hours," says Griffith. "Overnight lows still being warm, means that we won't be getting much reprieve from the heat."

Cochrane is expected to reach 30 degrees Celcius on Sunday, and as high as 36 degrees by Wednesday of next week.

Griffith says that a Heat Warning will likely be issued later today.