Heat Warning Issued for Metro Vancouver and Much of Southern B.C. as Temperatures Climb to 35°C

Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for Metro Vancouver, much of southern British Columbia, and Vancouver Island, with high temperatures expected to persist through Tuesday before cooling on Wednesday.

Daytime highs could reach 33°C in parts of Metro Vancouver, with overnight lows near 17°C. Some coastal areas, particularly near the water and in the southwest of the region, may see some relief. The Fraser Canyon, South Thompson, and South Okanagan could see temperatures close to 35°C, while coastal areas like Whistler, Pemberton, and parts of Vancouver Island may reach around 30°C.

In response, municipalities across the region are opening cooling centres. In Vancouver, community centres and libraries are offering air-conditioned spaces, as well as access to wading pools, spray parks, and misting stations. Burnaby has opened four cooling centres from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., providing seating, drinking water, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Port Coquitlam and the City of North Vancouver have also invited residents to use their community centres to stay cool.

WorkSafeBC has reminded employers to protect workers from heat stress. Between 2020 and 2024, the agency accepted 315 heat-related injury claims, most from transportation, public works, construction, food services, and film and television production.

Dr. Maulik Baxi of the Fraser Health Authority urged residents to check on vulnerable individuals — including infants, seniors, pregnant people, and those with disabilities — and to be mindful when travelling, as heat warnings may affect destinations even if conditions at home are milder.

Environment Canada warns that heat can be dangerous for anyone, but especially for seniors, people with certain medical conditions, those living alone, and individuals with limited mobility. Early signs of heat illness include fatigue, headache, thirst, and dark urine, which can quickly escalate into life-threatening emergencies.

Officials recommend staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day, opening windows at night to cool homes, drinking water frequently, and avoiding strenuous activity.
“Be a good neighbour, you know, and take care of one another,” said Baxi.