A late-summer heatwave brought record-breaking temperatures to parts of British Columbia on Wednesday (Sep. 3), with Sparwood and Cranbrook both setting new record highs.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), Sparwood reached 33.9°C, surpassing the previous record for that date of 31.8°C set in 1998. Records have been kept in that area since 1969.
Cranbrook climbed even higher, hitting 35.3°C, also a new daily record. The previous record high in Cranbrook for September 3 was 34.9 °C set in 2017. Records have been kept in the Cranbrook area since 1901.
The heat is expected to ease slightly in the coming days, but above-average temperatures may continue into the weekend.
Alongside the heat, smoke from more than 150 wildfires burning across B.C., Alberta and Washington has prompted an air quality statement for the Elk Valley.
Smokey skies in the Kootenays are expected to present a moderate health risk over the next couple of days.
Interior Health is urging people to limit time outdoors and consider rescheduling outdoor activities as smoke levels rise.
For updates, visit Environment Canada’s website.
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