British Columbia Sees Record High Temperatures as Summer Ends

A recent surge in temperatures has resulted in multiple communities along the British Columbia coast setting new daily heat records. On September 16, 2025, the town of White Rock in the Lower Mainland recorded a high of 29 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous record of 28.9 degrees set in 1967.

Other areas also experienced significant temperature increases. According to Environment Canada, records fell in Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast, Malahat and Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, as well as in Prince Rupert and Bella Bella along the northern and central coasts. These rising temperatures coincide with the approaching end of summer, intensifying the seasonal heatwave gripping the region.

Wildfire Concerns Amid Rising Temperatures

The BC Wildfire Service is closely monitoring the situation, anticipating showers and thunderstorms expected to sweep through the area. Wind gusts could reach up to 70 kilometres per hour, posing additional challenges as dry and warm conditions persist in the central and southern Interior.

Currently, the province is grappling with approximately 125 active wildfires. However, there is some positive news, as several evacuation orders in the Cariboo region were lifted yesterday due to cooler and wetter weather over the weekend, which has helped to slow the spread of numerous blazes.

Despite the heat and wildfire activity, air quality in Metro Vancouver remains stable, with no advisories currently in place. Nevertheless, residents have noticed wildfire smoke creating a hazy atmosphere across parts of the city, a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by the wildfires in the region.

This report was originally published by The Canadian Press on September 17, 2025, highlighting the concerning interplay between rising temperatures and wildfire risks as British Columbia heads towards the autumn season. As communities adapt to these changes, the focus remains on safety and preparedness in the face of fluctuating weather patterns.