B.C.’s COVID-19 state of emergency has been extended by another two weeks for the tenth time after it was first declared on March 18.

The extension will continue to allow Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth to use extraordinary powers under the Emergency Program Act to support the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In recent weeks, British Columbians have been reminded that COVID-19 case counts can easily rise if we’re not careful,” said Premier John Horgan.

“As we continue our slow and safe approach to Phase 3, extending the provincial state of emergency will continue to provide government with the resources we need to respond to any new challenges. This is not the time to let our guard down.”

The extended state of emergency will now expire on August 18, though it is likely to be extended again.

“We still need to be able to access the necessary tools to support communities as they combat COVID-19 and its impacts,” Farnworth said. “We will continue to extend this provincial state of emergency as long as necessary so we can ensure we are able to respond quickly and effectively to this pandemic.”

The province also remains under a public health emergency that was declared by Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry.