Record breaking heat leads to air quality advisory for Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley

High temperature records were shattered across B.C. on Sunday afternoon, including at several locations within the Lower Mainland.

The top record was set in Lillooet, B.C., where temperatures broke last year’s 39.7°C mark after reaching a high of 40.6°C. Pemberton Airport’s previous 1996 record high of 37.5°C was also broken when the mercury hit 39.9°C.

Within Metro Vancouver, two new records were made at Pitt Meadows (34°C on Sunday, 32.5°C in 1996) and West Vancouver (32°C on Sunday, 29.3°C in 1996).

With the added humidity, temperatures felt much hotter than what measurement gauges indicated across the region.

Warm but slightly lower temperatures are expected to last for at least another week, which has led Metro Vancouver regional district to declare an air quality advisory.

High concentrations of ground-level ozone are expected to persist over the next several days, although unexpected rain this morning improved conditions.

It is advised that residents should avoid strenuous outdoor activities during mid-afternoon, when ozone levels are highest. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have underlying medical conditions such as lung or heart disease and asthma.

Those experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cough or wheeze, follow the advice of your health care provider and stay indoors in air conditioned spaces.

Today in Vancouver by the water, temperatures are expected to reach a high of 25°C. There is also a risk of thunderstorms in the morning.

Poor visibility looking east from Downtown Vancouver at 7 a.m. on Monday, July 14, 2014

Image: Metro Vancouver

Vancouver International Airport

Image: Environment Canada

Abbotsford

Image: Environment Canada

Squamish

Image: Environment Canada

Whistler

Image: Environment Canada

Featured Image: Man pouring water head via Shutterstock