Heat warnings issued across southern B.C. after multiple temperature records fall

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued heat warnings for much of southern British Columbia after several communities recorded new daily temperature highs.

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the warnings cover the east coast of Vancouver Island, Whistler and the Fraser Valley, and are expected to remain in effect until Wednesday. Heat warnings for parts of the Southern Interior could continue through Thursday.

Forecasters say daytime temperatures in coastal areas are expected to exceed 30 C, while the Fraser Valley and Southern Interior could see highs near 35 C. Officials are advising residents to take precautions during the prolonged period of hot weather, particularly those most vulnerable to heat-related illness.

The current heat event has already resulted in new daily temperature records in Kitimat, Dease Lake, Sechelt and Squamish on Monday. Lytton recorded a high of 36.3 C, the highest temperature reported in both British Columbia and Canada that day.

The hot weather is also expected to increase electricity demand across the province. BC Hydro says air conditioner use could push provincial power consumption to a record level this week.