Heat and wildfire smoke trigger weather warnings across British Columbia

Environment Canada has issued weather warnings across much of British Columbia as temperatures climb into the mid30s and wildfire smoke continues to reduce air quality in several regions. Some areas, including the Fraser Canyon, could see temperatures near 40 C on Wednesday. The hottest conditions are expected in the Okanagan, Metro Vancouver, parts of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, while a cooling trend is forecast to begin on Thursday. Officials say people at higher risk, including seniors and those with health conditions, should check on neighbours and family members and look for signs of heat illness. Air quality warnings are also in place because of smoke from nearby wildfires, including the Brunswick Complex fires near Boston Bar. Residents are being advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed when smoke is present and use cooler indoor spaces if available.