Locally, East Vancouver Island, from Campbell River through Victoria, and the Sunshine Coast are at Level 2 on the drought severity index, with Level 5 being the most severe.
The report says variable conditions continue across the coastal region, and below-normal groundwater levels remain a concern in parts of East Vancouver Island and the South Coast.
The report says recent rainfall has provided some relief for western Vancouver Island and much of the central and south coasts, but concerns remain about below-normal groundwater levels, reduced fish habitat and unsuitable water temperatures.
A potentially powerful El Niño could worsen drought conditions across B.C., prompting calls for stronger water protection measures from the next provincial government.
A potentially powerful El Niño could worsen drought conditions across B.C., prompting calls for stronger water protection measures from the next provincial government.
B.C.'s major political parties are pitching tax cuts, frozen auto insurance rates and education improvements as the provincial election campaign continues.
The B.C. Conservatives have dropped their Victoria-Beacon Hill candidate after racist social media posts and comments appearing to support violence surfaced.