Heat Warnings Issued Across Southwest B.C. as Wildfire Crews Brace for Tough Conditions

Vancouver (Richa Walia) : Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued heat warnings for large parts of southwest British Columbia, with forecasters expecting soaring temperatures to challenge wildfire crews starting Sunday.

As of Saturday afternoon, the warnings covered inland and eastern Vancouver Island, Howe Sound, Whistler, Pemberton, the Fraser Canyon, and the South and North Thompson regions, along with the South Okanagan. Temperatures are forecast to surpass 35°C in the Fraser Canyon, South Okanagan, and South Thompson, while areas on the South Coast and North Thompson could exceed 30°C.

The B.C. Wildfire Service warned the heat and dry weather could intensify wildfire activity, including the 580-hectare Wesley Ridge blaze on Vancouver Island. While fire activity was minimal overnight, fire information officer Madison Dahl said more smoke is expected as rising temperatures fuel unburned areas. The blaze, suspected to be human-caused, has forced hundreds from their homes for over a week.

Nearly 300 properties remain under evacuation order, including Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, with another 353 addresses on alert. The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) says most orders could be lifted Monday, potentially allowing many residents south of Warn Way to return home, though about 39 properties may remain evacuated.

Officials continue to urge residents to follow safety precautions during the heat wave and to check on vulnerable neighbours. Drivers using Highway 4 have been asked not to stop for photos near the fire zone.