Wildfire smoke could drift into Metro Vancouver this week

Metro Vancouver could be set for hazy conditions this week, as dense smoke from the wildfires burning in the interior drift down through valleys and into coastal areas.

The smoke could arrive as early as Tuesday and Wednesday according to a statement issued by BC Wildfire Service  on Monday.

Some of the smoke will also be arriving from wildfires burning in the United States.

Temperatures in the region are expected to soar to record-breaking daytime highs in the upper 30s on Wednesday and Thursday, but this is due to the forecast of outflow winds that will move very warm, exceptionally dry, and likely smoky air from the interior to the coast.

Normally, the region sees prevailing winds that travel from the coast to the interior.

See also

• Environment Canada issues extreme heat wave warning for Metro Vancouver
• Temperatures to reach a scorching hot 39°C in Metro Vancouver this week
• Op-Ed: Destructive wildfires in BC can be avoided with proper controlled burning

To date this wildfire season, over 4,260 sq. kms. of terrain in BC has been scorched by wildfires, and about 6,000 people remain evacuated from their homes.

The provincial government says the high temperatures will further increase the risk of new wildfires.

“This weather pattern will rapidly dry out coastal forests, making them more susceptible to wildfire and making it more challenging for firefighters to put out existing fires,” reads a release.

“Members of the public are asked to use caution with any activity that could potentially spark a new wildfire.”