BC's provincial state of emergency extended for another two weeks

The provincial government is extending British Columbia’s state of emergency for another two weeks, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

The announcement comes after a concerning spike in cases, including 102 reported cases over the past weekend alone. Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said that BC was on the edge of having “explosive growth,” should things continue as they are.

The government’s most recent extension will remain in effect until the end of Tuesday, August 4, 2020.

Government officials want to remind British Columbians that despite eased measures from moving into Phase 3, the coronavirus is still a part of our new normal.

• See also: 
  • BC is on the “edge” of explosive growth in coronavirus cases: Henry
  • BC reports 102 new coronavirus cases over past three days
  • Bars, indoor parties among reasons for rise in Canada’s coronavirus cases: health officials

“We are still in the midst of a pandemic, and we’re not out of the woods yet,” says Premier John Horgan. “As a government, we are working to ensure the supports people need during this unprecedented time continue to be available, which is why we’re extending provincial state of emergency.”

Earlier this month, the COVID-19 Related Measures Act came into effect, legislation to allow provisions created for people and businesses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to continue as needed after the provincial state of emergency ends.