Wildfire smoke returns to Metro Vancouver as heat builds to 35°C mid-week
Environment Canada forecasts hazy skies and warm temperatures Monday through Wednesday, with humidity making it feel like mid-30s inland—relief coming Friday.
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Sunshine and rising temperatures are returning to Metro Vancouver this week, but wildfire smoke will accompany the warmth.
Environment and Climate Change Canada is calling for hazy skies to start the week due to wildfire smoke. A recent thunderstorm event saw 50,000 lightning strikes and 130 fire starts through the weekend in B.C., with a significant fire in the Fraser Canyon. Airflow isn't exceptional at this time, and people will be able to smell smoke in the coming hours.
Temperatures will climb steadily: Monday's highs reach 28°C inland, with humidity making it feel like 32°C. Tuesday will jump higher, with temperatures reaching 30°C inland and the humidex pushing it up to 35°C inland. Wednesday will see temperatures reach 29°C inland. A humid air mass is moving in from Northern California.
Metorologist Matt Loney noted that "relief may be coming on Friday, with a maritime airmass coming in from the ocean." From Friday through Sunday, temperatures will cool slightly to 22°C. Overnight temperatures are expected to stay warm, with lows of 15°C and 16°C.
The facts
What's the warmest it will feel in Metro Vancouver this week?
Tuesday, July 21, 2026 will feel like 35°C inland in Metro Vancouver when humidity is factored in, making it the warmest day of the week.
Why is wildfire smoke affecting Metro Vancouver?
A recent thunderstorm event produced 130 fire starts across B.C., including a significant fire in the Fraser Canyon, with smoke drifting into Metro Vancouver due to weak airflow.
When will temperatures cool down in Metro Vancouver?
Relief arrives on Friday, July 24, 2026, when a maritime air mass moves in from the ocean and temperatures drop to around 22°C through the weekend.
