Metro Vancouver braces for near 40°C humidex Friday before weekend storms roll in

Friday will be the last scorcher before a weather shift brings thunderstorms and cooler conditions to Metro Vancouver over the weekend.

Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts a coastal high of 24°C on Friday, Aug. 21, but inland areas will reach 31°C — feeling more like 30°C and 37°C respectively when humidity is factored in. Friday night carries a 40 per cent chance of showers before the real change arrives.

Saturday will start mostly cloudy with possible morning showers, but the significant weather buildup comes late afternoon into evening. A 60 per cent chance of showers extends overnight, with a risk of thunderstorms and winds gusting 20 to 40 km/h. Environment Canada meteorologist Chloe Katsademas said local precipitation amounts may vary between five and 15 millimetres depending on where the upper trough sets up. The thunderstorm risk continues through Sunday morning before dissipating by afternoon.

Temperatures will drop to just 21°C both Saturday and Sunday, with a humidex of 25°C. While the system brings rain and thunder, Katsademas advised those with camping plans to keep an eye on forecasts but said conditions shouldn't force cancellations.

A weak ridge of high pressure is expected to develop again early next week, bringing mixed sun and cloud starting Monday. Another trough may pass through later in the week.

This follows days of warm, humid conditions. Trail, B.C., recorded 37.2°C on Aug. 20, breaking the area's previous daily record of 36.7°C set in 1967.