DAWSON CREEK - A stretch of hot summer weather continues to rewrite the record books across northeastern British Columbia, while Environment Canada is warning that severe thunderstorms could develop later Friday in parts of the Peace Region.
A new temperature record was set on Thursday in one Peace Region community. The thermometer climbed to 31 C in Dawson Creek, breaking the previous July 16 record of 28 C set in 1970.
Chetwynd also reached 30 C, while Fort St. John hit 29 C, tying the record set in 2012.
The latest records come one day after Dawson Creek set a new daily temperature record on Wednesday. Environment Canada recorded a high of 28 C, surpassing the previous record of 27.2 C established in 2004.
While the heat has dominated headlines this week, forecasters are now turning their attention to the risk of severe weather.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
Environment Canada has issued a ‘Severe Thunderstorm Watch’ for the South Peace River region, including Dawson Creek.
The agency says conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms capable of producing large hail and heavy rain Friday evening and overnight.
“Severe thunderstorms are expected in the B.C. South Peace River region, this evening and into tonight,” Environment Canada said in its advisory.
Despite the approaching storm system, temperatures are expected to remain well above seasonal averages. Dawson Creek is forecast to reach 32 C on Friday, with a humidex value of 35. The normal daytime high for this time of year is 21 C.
Heat Warning Remains
“Yellow Heat Warnings’ also remain in effect for the North Peace region, including Fort St. John, as well as Fort Nelson.
Environment Canada says daytime highs in the upper 20s and low 30s are expected to persist for at least several days, posing an increased health risk, particularly for seniors, people living alone and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Residents are being encouraged to stay hydrated, take breaks from the heat, check on vulnerable family members and neighbours, and watch for signs of heat-related illness.
Relief may be on the horizon. The forecast calls for increased cloud cover and a chance of showers and thunderstorms through Saturday, when temperatures in Dawson Creek are expected to drop to around 22 C before gradually warming again early next week.