Western Canada has experienced sweltering temperatures. The province’s chief coroner suggested that more than 300 deaths could have been caused by the extreme conditions.

       At least 486 sudden deaths were registered over five days in the region.

       Typically, 165 sudden deaths are reported over five days in British Columbia.

       Chief coroner Lisa Lapointe addressed the concerns in a statement.

       She said: “While it is too early to say with certainty how many of these deaths are heat related, it is believed likely that the significant increase in deaths reported is attributable to the extreme weather BC has experienced and continues to impact many parts of our province.”

       However, Ms Lapointe highlighted the figures could go up as other coroners in the region file deaths into the system.

       Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sent his condolences to the families of those who died during the heatwave.

       He said: “Our thoughts are with people who have lost loved ones.”

       Canada broke its temperature record for the third day in a row on Tuesday.

       It registered temperatures of up to 49.5C (121F) in Lytton, British Columbia.

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