A 100-year-old temperature record has been shattered in British Columbia, coinciding with the anniversary of the deadly 2021 heat dome that killed over 600 people in the province. On June 24, 2026, the mercury hit 42.2°C in Lytton, surpassing the previous record of 41.1°C set in 1925. The new high was recorded at 3:30 p.m. local time, according to Environment Canada.
Record-Breaking Heat Across the Province
The extreme temperatures were not confined to Lytton. Several communities across B.C. experienced record-breaking heat, including Kamloops, which reached 40.5°C, and Kelowna, which hit 39.8°C. Environment Canada meteorologist Derek Lee noted that the heatwave was driven by a strong ridge of high pressure, similar to the conditions that led to the 2021 heat dome. “This is a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme heat events due to climate change,” Lee said.
Health and Infrastructure Impacts
Health officials urged residents to take precautions, including staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, and checking on vulnerable neighbors. The B.C. government activated its extreme heat response plan, opening cooling centers in major cities and extending public pool hours. “We are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to provide support to communities as needed,” said B.C. Emergency Management Minister Bowinn Ma in a statement.
Infrastructure also faced challenges. BC Hydro reported a 15% increase in electricity demand as residents cranked up air conditioning. The utility warned of potential localized outages and urged conservation. Meanwhile, the Transportation Ministry advised drivers to carry extra water and avoid non-essential travel during the hottest parts of the day.
Anniversary of the 2021 Heat Dome
The record falls on the fifth anniversary of the 2021 heat dome, which killed 619 people in B.C. and caused widespread damage, including the devastating Lytton wildfire that destroyed much of the village. The province has since implemented a Heat Alert and Response System (HARS) and invested in community resilience programs. “We have learned hard lessons from 2021,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer. “We are better prepared now, but these events are becoming more common and more severe.”
The heatwave is expected to persist through the weekend, with temperatures remaining 10 to 15 degrees above normal for this time of year. Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for most of southern and interior B.C., advising residents to take precautions and stay informed.
