Canada has been hit by a blistering and historic heatwave — and British Columbia just set a national temperature record not seen in nearly a century. The small town of Lytton scorched its way into the history books on Sunday, hitting a staggering 46.1°C (115°F) and breaking Canada’s previous record of 45°C set in Saskatchewan in 1937.
Meteorologists say this extreme heat is part of a massive dome of high pressure gripping western Canada, driving temperatures far beyond seasonal norms. Several other daily records across British Columbia were also shattered as the heatwave intensified.
Even coastal areas weren’t spared. In typically mild Vancouver, temperatures soared to 31°C, leaving residents sweltering in conditions more typical of midsummer deserts than Canada’s Pacific coast.
Forecasters predict relief is on the horizon, with cooling expected to begin Tuesday — but the event has already raised serious concerns about climate patterns and the increasing frequency of extreme weather.
As Canada braces for more heat in the coming days, officials are urging caution, hydration, and close attention to vulnerable populations.