Many of 719 deaths connected to B.C. heat wave

The heat wave may be loosening its grip on B.C., but it has left hundreds of deaths in its wake.

The B.C. Coronor’s Service said over the past week, from June 25 to July 1, 719 sudden and unexpected deaths have been reported to B.C.’s coroners.

“This number is preliminary and subject to increase as additional reported deaths are entered into our system. The 719 deaths reported is three times more than what would normally occur in the province during the same period,” chief coroner Lisa Lapointe said.

Lapointe said it is believed the extreme weather is a significant contributing factor to the increased number of deaths. Many of the deaths were among older individuals living alone in private residences with minimal ventilation.