A heat wave has hit the Pembina Valley.

Environment Canada has released a special weather statement for the region as temperatures are expected to climb into the mid 30's.

Southern Manitoba will experience a period of high heat and humidity over the next few days as maximum daily temperatures and overnight minimums will remain a few degrees below heat warning criteria.

Humidex values as high as 36 are possible for areas in or near the Red River Valley with values closer to 32 for the rest of southern Manitoba.

Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water and stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

Environment Canada warns the risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors.

Outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks in a cool place.

With the heat comes the potential for thunderstorms tonight across the region.

The hot and humid conditions on Thursday will combine with a cold front pushing eastwards through western Manitoba in the afternoon, producing thunderstorms over western Manitoba that will progress eastwards into the Red River Valley on Thursday evening. There will be a moderate threat of severe thunderstorms with this second system. The chance for showers or thunderstorms will continue Thursday night into Friday as an upper-level disturbance moves through the region.