(CFJC Today/File photo).

By Aaron Schulze

Wildfire Watch

Kamloops Fire Centre: fuels will remain dry even with precipitation

Jul 5, 2021 | 4:26 PM

KAMLOOPS — There are 63 active wildfires in the Kamloops Fire Centre as of July 5 – including the four fires of note: Durand Lake, Lytton, McKay Creek and Sparks Lake.

As the Kamloops Fire Centre experienced a dryer June than normal, Fire Information Officer Shaelee Stearns said it’s best for residents to be extra cautious with potential fire hazards. Especially with thunderstorms in the forecast.

“On July 1 to 2, when we saw that aggressive thunderstorm behaviour, we had 14 new starts overnight due to the extreme lightning,” Stearns said. “Especially in these dry temperatures it means our deeper fuels are dried out a lot more, so we have to be super vigilant.”

Environment and Climate Change Canada predicts a 60 per cent chance of showers in Kamloops on Wednesday (July 7). Stearns said any precipitation and cooler temperatures helps fire suppression, but the fuels will remain quite dry after.

For the Kamloops East Interface Fire near Juniper Ridge and Valleyview, B.C. Wildfire Service continues to aid Kamloops Fire Rescue. Stearns said the Strawberry Hill fire is being acted on and assessed throughout the day.

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Campfires and open burning are currently prohibited in B.C.

Anyone who sees a wildfire can report it by calling 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone.