Heatwave linked to sudden deaths in Vancouver as new temperature records set

Temperatures in the Vancouver area reached just under 32C (90F) on Monday, but the humidity made it feel close to 40C (104F) in areas that are not near water

People try to beat the heat at a beach in Alberta (Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press via AP)

A sweltering heatwave that has settled over western Canada for several days is believed to be a contributing factor in dozens of sudden-death calls received by police in the Vancouver area, authorities have said.

Cpl Mike Kalanj, of Burnaby Royal Canadian Mounted Police, said the detachment responded to 25 sudden-death calls in a 24-hour period. The deaths are still under investigation and many of the deceased were elderly, he said.