Record-breaking temperatures continue to scorch British Columbia as several cities saw new heat records on Saturday. According to reports, Kamloops registered the highest temperature in all of Canada with 31.6 degrees Celsius. Other places such as Kelowna, Vernon, and Merritt also saw record-breaking temperatures on the same day. The beaches of Kelowna were crowded with sunbathers taking advantage of the early summer weather, as temperatures reached 28.2 C, breaking the previous record of 26.7 C set in 1968.
The hot weather across the province set a total of 19 new heat records for April 29, with Lytton, Clinton, Cache Creek, Blue River, Burns Lake, Trail, Williams Lake and Prince George in the Interior being among the affected communities. Although Penticton didn’t break any records, the city recorded a high of 27.8 C at the airport.
Temperatures are expected to stay above average on Sunday, with a slight chance of showers later in the afternoon across the Interior. Weather forecasts suggest the heatwave will continue throughout the coming week.
The extreme heat has raised concerns about possible health risks, as well as the risk of wildfires in the province. The BC Wildfire Service has urged residents to be cautious and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately. The provincial government has also issued heat warnings and advised people to stay indoors and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.