B.C. marks toxic drug emergency as Okanagan communities feel the toll

Nearly a decade after B.C. declared a public health emergency over the province’s toxic drug crisis, communities across the Okanagan continue to grapple with its impact.

More than 18,000 people have died from illicit, unregulated drug toxicity in the province since the emergency was declared in 2016.

In Vernon, more than 300 people have died from toxic drugs since 2016, according to the BC Coroners Service. Kelowna has recorded over 800 deaths linked to unregulated drugs over the past decade, including 86 in 2025 — down slightly from 90 in 2024 but still below the record 104 deaths in 2023.

Front-line workers and advocates say the toxic drug supply, limited access to treatment, and social vulnerabilities continue to put lives at risk despite harm reduction efforts.

The 10th anniversary of the emergency is April 14.

As the province marks a decade since the emergency, local advocates stress the need for expanded services, community-informed solutions, and continued support for those most affected.