Mother's Day weekend heat could pose health, wildfire risk in B.C.
British Columbia can't seem to catch a break this month.
From spring flooding and wildfires to thunderstorms and heat, the province is experiencing the wicked side of Mother Nature.
The upcoming Mother's Day weekend will see extreme heat move in, pushing the envelope for May standards, even. Although the ridge is not as strong as the deadly June 2021 heat dome, it is on the extreme end for May.
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Temperatures will reach into the upper 20s, and potentially the low 30s, elevating the health and problematic wildfire risk in the province.
Saturday through Monday
Areas: British Columbia
Weather: High temperatures into the low- to mid-30s are possible for the Interior and inland coastal sections. The latter will be in the high 20s and into the low 30s. Temperature will rise over the weekend with peak temperatures occurring Sunday and Monday
Threats: High confidence that extreme heat will move into the region, breaking daily temperature records. There is lower confidence that any May temperature records will be broken.
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Prepare
The risks that come along with heat waves will be stroke, heat exhaustion, more melting, wildfire and flooding concerns.
In communities with elevated or high wildfire danger ratings, or could be threatened by a blaze in the near future, residents should take time now to review emergency preparedness and evacuation plans in the event of a nearby fire. Individuals and families should be prepared to take care of themselves for at least 72 hours in case of evacuation due to wildfires.
Analysis
A strong ridge will develop late week and through the weekend, potentially becoming one of the strongest high pressures for May standards. The feedback cycle of the heat dome will have temperatures becoming warmer throughout the weekend, peaking Sunday and Monday.
WATCH: What is a 'heat dome', and why is it so dangerous?
Stay with The Weather Network for the latest on conditions throughout the region.
