Good morning {{First name}}!

The annual Victoria Day Parade is happening tomorrow. While it’s shorter than previous years, all the elements of this favourite tradition—from marching bands to colourful floats—will still be there.

If you’re not planning to check out the parade, you may want to avoid downtown (and the busy traffic) tomorrow morning.

— Robyn

Today’s approx. read time: 7 minutes

Today: 🌦️ 14 / 8

Tomorrow: ⛅ 18 / 9

Day after: ⛅ 17 / 10

7-day forecast

The BC Coroners Service says 135 people in BC died from toxic drug use in March, 31 of whom were on the Island.

The province’s death toll that month—equating to 4.4 deaths per day—was higher than in February, but the Island’s remained the same.

Of the 31 on the Island who were killed by illicit drugs, 14 were located in Greater Victoria.

So far this year, Island Health has the second highest rate of toxic drug deaths in BC (Northern BC has the highest).

In the first three months of 2026, 401 British Columbians died from unregulated drug use. The Island lost 91 lives, including 34 in Greater Victoria. 

This year, people aged 30 to 59 accounted for 68% of toxic drug deaths in the province. The majority—nearly 80%—were male.

Most drug deaths occur indoors: this year, 82% happened in private residences, supportive housing, and shelters. Outdoor deaths accounted for 17%.

1 person tests positive for hantavirus in Island Health: Dr. Bonnie Henry says there’s no risk to the public. More details can be found in our In Other News section. [CBC]

Thrifty Foods 126th Anniversary Victoria Day Parade is at 9am tomorrow. See the route here.

Victoria roadwork: Expect traffic delays on Cook between Summit and Slater, with intermittent closures on Finlayson, between Cook and Quadra. Tuesday through May 29. [City of Vic]

Pacific FC vs. Inter Toronto at 2pm today at Starlight Stadium.

Spamalot coming to Victoria: Tickets for the popular Monty Python musical go on sale May 22.