Temperatures soared across the Northwest yesterday (July 8) smashing some old records.
The mercury hit 33.1°C in Smithers, last year on this day it was 32.
Terrace saw a 32°C day on Monday, also breaking a record from 2015 when it was 31.8 °C.
It was 32.6°C in Burns Lake yesterday, beating out the previous temperature of 28.8°C set in 2015.
It was also 32.8°C in Kitimat but no historical data was available.
Prince Rupert also broke a record, but barely. It was 21.3°C July 8, the old record was set in 2015 with 21.0°C
A heat warning remains in place for inland sections of the central and north coasts. Elevated temperatures are expected and there is a moderate risk to public health. Environment Canada is advising people to check on family, friends and neighbours, who are at higher risk, particularly if they live alone, to make sure they have a cool space.
Watch for the effects of heat illness: heavy sweating, rash, cramps, fainting, high body temperature and the worsening of some health conditions. Keep your house cool. Turn on your air conditioning (if possible), block the sun by closing curtains or blinds, or relocate to a cooler location such as a basement or public cooling centre.
There is a change coming quickly.
BC Wildfire said tomorrow (July 10), a cold front is forecast to sweep across northern B.C., generating strong winds, thunderstorms and the potential for dry lightning. With recent hot, dry weather, new wildfire starts are anticipated, particularly in northern regions.
The wildfire service says it is prepared to respond to new wildfires and increased wildfire activity. With the potential for aggressive fire behaviour and high rates of spread during these weather conditions, they are asking everyone to pay attention to local updates and alerts in their area, stay up to date on the current wildfire situation and check for bans and restrictions.