Erin Haluschak
Record Staff
If it feels unusually hot in the Comox Valley, then you’re right — Sunday’s high of 32.5 C broke a new temperature record, with little relief on the way for the rest of the week.
Environment Canada Meteorologist Allan Coldwells said Sunday’s temperature recorded at the Comox Airport surpassed the old record of 31.1 C set in 1961.
“There’s a strong ridge of high pressure drawing levels from the southern U.S., from the desert, and it’s giving us lots of sun and high temperatures,” he explained.
Although it may feel unusual, Coldwells said it’s not unheard of for temperatures to be elevated for an extended stretch in July in the Comox Valley.
“It is a little bit early — we usually see temperatures in the low 30s in late July or early August. The record for (last) Friday is 34 C, so it has happened, but the temperatures vary day-to-day.”
As of press deadline Monday, temperatures were forecast to surpass 30 C, and Coldwells noted it is possible another record will be broken, with a record of 29.4 C for July 14 recorded in 1958.
He added because of the clear, sunny skies, temperatures have more of a chance to reach maximum values, and said although the broad ridge of high pressure is blanketing the province, there “definitely will be some cooling down.”
“By mid-week, there will be some northwest winds just enough to cool things down around 28 C, 26 C, which is about five degrees above normal,” he explained.
The westerly flow could bring some patchy, low-level clouds too, with the weekend offering a possible mix of sun and clouds.