Unyielding heat keeps B.C. sizzling under stifling temperatures
Extreme heat will continue its tight grip on B.C. this week, posing a risk to health and for new wildfires.
Folks across B.C. are feeling the heat as temperatures have rapidly climbed to high levels, and will stay that way for at least a part of this week for some areas.
Heat warnings across the province as temperatures will remain firmly in the 30s until Wednesday for coastal areas, but the the Okanagan Valley could see an additional 10 consecutive days above 30°C.
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The heat, originating from a California-positioned heat dome, has already given Canada multiple 40-degree temperatures, including its first of the year. Ashcroft reached 40.3°C on Sunday, hot enough to make it Canada's new hot spot so far this year.
However, on Monday, Lytton soared to 41.6°C, warmer than the 40.3°C recorded on Sunday in Ashcroft.
The ridge of high will pressure divert any moisture in the atmosphere towards Northern Canada, increasing drought conditions and making the province more vulnerable to wildfires.
As with any prolonged heat event, there are health risks associated for those in vulnerable populations who may be more susceptible to the warmer conditions.
Days of intense heat continues, wildfire danger rises
Parts of B.C.'s South Coast started feeling the heat on Friday, reaching between the mid-20s to the lower 30s across the region.
Across the southern Interior, temperatures reached the low- to mid-30s on Sunday before starting to climb to the mid-to-upper 30s early this week.
On Tuesday, the final hot day for the coast, temperatures will once again spill into the low 30s, but inland locales in the Interior will see daytime highs soar from 40°C to 42°C.
Warm nights will continue with temperatures hovering in the low 20s for much of the nighttime period across British Columbia.
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The Interior is facing a prolonged heat wave with potentially an additional 10 consecutive days above 30°C for the Okanagan Valley.
Temperatures in the 30-40-degree range are forecast to continue through the Interior as a strong area of high pressure heats the entire west coast.
The coast will gets some cooling into Wednesday, with more of an onshore flow. However, no rain is forecast over the next 10 days across the southern area of the province.
There will be a slight risk of dry lightning on Tuesday across the central Interior as a weak, mid-level trough rides along the ridge.
As a result of the dry lightning risk and heat, the wildfire danger is increasing rapidly.
For example, last weekend saw most of the province in the low fire danger rating, but as of Monday, the South Coast faces a high fire rating designation.
Heat safety
In prolonged heat events such as this, it is crucial to remember to drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and check in on those who are at the highest risk of developing heat-related illnesses.
On average, five million people die around the world each year due to extreme heat events. There has also been proof that stress from the extreme heat can cause damage to your brain, liver, and gut functions.
The Canadian Red Cross also recommends taking frequent breaks while working outside, wearing a hat while outdoors, and avoiding drinking caffeine and alcohol as they can cause dehydration.
Stay with The Weather Network for more forecast information and updates on your weather across Canada.
