Heat wave is a term that Richmondites only hear once a year, twice if were lucky.
And although the temperatures in the foreseeable future arent yet record-breaking, the city and the Lower Mainland is enjoying a hotter and earlier summer than usual, said Environment Canada meteorologist Matt MacDonald.
We havent had any rain in 19 days, sad MacDonald.
Typically, once we get into July, in the southwest of B.C., we have this big ridge of high pressure from California that shifts to the north to give these dry prolonged summers that we all long for.
The shift happened ahead of schedule, added MacDonald, keeping the cool, showery patterns from Alaska at bay.
Its not totally abnormal. The record for a dry spell was back in 86 when we had 56 days without any rain.
According to Environment Canada historical data, the highest temperature ever recorded at YVR on July 16 was 29.4 degrees celsius in 1941.
MacDonald said the high pressure in the area has already reached its full strength and shouldnt be persisting for several days, which is what is needed to set a new record.
Forecast for the remainder of the week is mainly sunny with highs in the low to mid-20s.
Meanwhile, the City of Richmond is reminding people of the dangers that can come with a dry spell.
Spokesperson Ted Townsend said they are quite concerned about backyard safety in light of all the dry foliage and combustibles many people have on their properties.
We had a hedge fire between a couple of houses that caused damage to both the house where the hedge was located, and some neighbouring houses, he said.
