Your trusted source for local Vancouver, BC news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Vancouver officials prepare for potential unpermitted 420 events at Sunset Beach on April 17, 2025. The Vancouver Police Department and Vancouver Park Board will implement measures to manage crowd safety and public order during the weekend.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is experiencing a notable surge in graduate applications from American students, with a 27% increase compared to last year. In response, UBC has launched “U.S. Applicant Week,” extending application deadlines for select programs aimed at U.S. citizens for admission in 2025. The initiative highlights the advantages of studying in Canada, including lower tuition and access to work permits.
Health-care workers in Surrey are set to rally against federal cuts to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which jeopardize their chances for permanent residency. The B.C. government has announced that new applications will be largely limited to health professionals and entrepreneurs, significantly reducing opportunities for other essential roles in the sector. The Hospital Employees’ Union emphasizes the critical need for these workers amid ongoing health-care staffing shortages.
The BC Wildfire Service has forecasted warmer-than-normal temperatures for British Columbia, potentially leading to increased precipitation in coastal and central regions this spring. However, drought conditions persist in the northeast, raising concerns about wildfire risks later in the summer. The province urges residents to prepare for seasonal hazards and emphasizes the importance of emergency planning.
Striking LifeLabs workers in Victoria are rallying in front of the B.C. Legislature, demanding the cancellation of a contract with the U.S.-owned Quest Diagnostics. Supported by the BC Health Coalition and the BC General Employees’ Union, the workers are advocating for public laboratory services to improve wait times and working conditions. The strike, now in its eighth week, involves rotating job actions affecting lab operations.
The B.C. government is set to amend its graduated driver licensing process by eliminating the second road test and instituting a new 12-month probationary period for new drivers. The changes aim to reduce wait times and crash risks associated with inexperienced drivers, although concerns about road safety and potential revenue generation have been raised by legal experts. Implementation of the new regulations is anticipated in early 2026.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is experiencing significant flight delays and cancellations due to "resource constraints" at NAV CANADA, affecting passengers traveling in and out of the airport. YVR has urged travelers to check their flight status with airlines and has acknowledged the inconvenience caused by these disruptions. The situation is ongoing, and the airport continues to monitor the impact on travel plans.
The Abbotsford Police Department is investigating a reported sexual assault of a young girl at Downes Bowl Park, which occurred on Monday night. The suspect, described as a male between 15 and 20 years old, remains unidentified, and police are urging anyone with information, including dash camera footage, to come forward. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety in public spaces.
The BC Highway Patrol is investigating a box truck collision with the CP Rail overpass on Highway 1 in Langley. The incident, which occurred just before 8 a.m., resulted in minor damage, and the driver has been located and is cooperating with police. Authorities are reminding drivers of their legal obligations following a collision.
The Vancouver Police Department is increasing patrols in the Downtown Eastside following threats against officers, including plans to kill one. Acting Chief Steve Rai's internal memo outlines enhanced safety measures after incidents of violence against police. Despite the escalation, police emphasize that the majority of neighborhood residents are not involved in these attacks.