The largest fire within the Kamloops Fire Centre is the George Road wildfire south of Lytton (Facebook/BC Wildfire Service).

By Aaron Schulze

Wildfire Watch

Kamloops Fire Centre danger rating moderate-to-high after fierier season

Jun 22, 2021 | 10:24 AM

KAMLOOPS — The Kamloops Fire Centre has seen 103 wildfires burn nearly 2,100 hectares between April 1 and June 21, 2021.

It’s a notable uptick from the 10-year average of 73 wildfires for nearly 1,200 hectares burned during that stretch.

While B.C. Wildfire Service can’t predict wildfire severity beyond a few days of the weather forecast, it is preparing for an above-average season with the current trend.

“The fire danger rating throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre is moderate, with some high through Lytton, Kamloops, Lillooet, and the Okanagan,” Fire Information Officer Aydan Coray said. “To date, Kamloops has received less than average amount of precipitation, in addition to quite dry conditions the last few weeks. The deeper fuels will be drying out earlier than usual.”

A moderate fire danger rating means forest fuels are drying and there is an increased risk of surface fires starting, while a high rating means forest fuels are very dry and the fire risk is serious. New fires may start easily, burn vigorously and challenge fire suppression efforts.

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(B.C. Wildfire Service).

Coray said predicting wildfire severity depends on local weather patterns such as timing, the amount of precipitation, lengths of dry periods, thunderstorms and wind events. She added the B.C. Wildfire Service is prepared for what to expect by studying forecasts, using the experience of previous fire seasons and having firefighting resources available.

“Human-caused wildfires are preventable,” Coray said. “Whether you’re staying close to home… or heading out into the back country, it’s important you’re cautious with your campfire usage. If you’re having a campfire, keep it small, safe and supervised, and never burn in windy conditions. Make sure your fire is completely extinguished and cool to the touch before leaving the area because winds can carry those embers to other combustible materials and start a new fire.”

The Kamloops Fire Centre has an open fire ban in effect until Oct. 15, but campfires and forest use are not banned or restricted as of publication.

Anyone who spots a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation can call 1 (800) 663-5555 toll free or *5555 from a cell phone.