'The time to prepare is now': Officials brace for a hot summer in B.C.

While mild – and in some cases damp – weather may be persisting in parts of B.C., the next extreme heat event could arrive as early as next week, according to a warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada.

While mild – and in some cases damp – weather may be persisting in parts of B.C., the next extreme heat event could arrive as early as next week, according to a warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada.

During an update Friday on the province’s heat preparedness strategy for the summer, Armel Castellan said temperatures are forecast to significantly rise towards the first weekend of June, signalling the start of what’s expected to be another record-hot season.

“Prepare for the start of the summer next weekend and a drier June,” Castellan said.

While providing a seasonal outlook, Castellan emphasized that he can’t confirm whether the province will see another heat event of note, like the deadly 2021 heat dome that shattered temperature records and was linked to more than 600 deaths in B.C.

“But it’s pretty obvious to the modelling—globally and locally—that we’re looking at a likely warmer than normal summer period,” he said, singling out Haida Gwaii and parts of the Vancouver Island as places that may see near-normal temperatures. “Strong heat events may be more of an interior issue.”

Speaking at the same news conference Friday, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said “the time to prepare is now.”

The province is doing so through two new initiatives aimed at supporting residents with lower incomes, as well as those who are at higher risk of extreme heat illness, like seniors.