Ashcroft Hits Record 40.8°C: Hottest September Day in Canada

UPDATE: Ashcroft, British Columbia, has shattered records with a jaw-dropping official temperature of 40.8°C (105.4°F) on September 3, 2025, marking the hottest September day ever recorded in Canada. This unprecedented heat wave not only makes Ashcroft the hottest spot in Canada on that day but also raises alarms about climate patterns as multiple regions experience abnormal temperatures.

On September 3, Ashcroft soared past the previous record of 40°C, held since 1906 by Morden, Manitoba, 1940 by Lost River, Saskatchewan, and the recent high of 40°C recorded in Lytton just a day earlier. Lytton itself was still sweltering, reaching 39.8°C that day, among 16 communities in British Columbia breaking temperature records. Other notable highs included Clinton at 34.3°C, Kamloops at 36.9°C, and both Lillooet and Merritt at 38.7°C.

Weather expert Joey Onley, based in Wells, explains that a powerful high-pressure system has blocked cooler weather from entering the region. This anomaly has resulted in a dramatic surge of warmth from the south, creating conditions reminiscent of summer in countries like Iraq and Saudi Arabia, where temperatures typically exceed 40°C. “These high temperatures in early September are highly unusual,” says Onley.

The implications of Ashcroft’s record-setting day extend far beyond local meteorology. Onley warns that such extreme temperatures should not be normalized. He highlights that the angle of the sun decreases as autumn approaches, leading to fewer hours of daylight and less solar energy, making the September highs even more concerning. “Forty degrees Celsius is not normal for this time of year. It’s an extreme temperature,” he asserts.

This latest development comes amid broader discussions about climate change and its impact on weather patterns in British Columbia. Onley emphasizes that memories of past weather conditions can be misleading. “People may recall hotter days in the past, but data shows that such extremes were not common.”

As the conversation heats up, Onley urges caution regarding personal weather measurements that often lack scientific accuracy. Many backyard thermometers, he notes, can be influenced by nearby structures or direct sunlight, leading to inflated temperature readings. “Official data from Environment Canada is collected under strict guidelines to ensure accuracy,” he explains.

In the face of this record-breaking heat, Onley acknowledges that while summer 2025 may feel like a “down” year compared to previous extremes, it still shows an overall trend of higher-than-average temperatures across the province. “We’re adjusting to a new normal, but we must recognize that these extremes are becoming more frequent,” he warns.

The record-breaking temperature in Ashcroft prompts critical discussions about environmental conditions and public health, especially as communities brace for the lingering effects of climate change. In light of these developments, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for potential heat waves in the coming months.

For continuous updates and insights on weather patterns in British Columbia, follow Onley’s social media channels, including the Interior Weather & Wilderness Facebook page and his YouTube channel, Joey Only – Cariboo Weather Dude.

As the situation evolves, it is vital to understand the implications of such extreme weather events and engage in conversations about sustainable practices to mitigate climate change impacts.