By Canadian Press

B.C. warns of increasing wildfire risk with the return of hot, dry weather

Aug 1, 2024 | 10:58 AM

VICTORIA — The number of active wildfires in British Columbia is holding steady at just under 340 as the provincial government warns of increasing fire risk this weekend.

A statement from the government says people in wildfire-prone areas are “strongly urged” to be vigilant, adhere to fire bans, and be prepared with an emergency plan.

Environment Canada is forecasting a return of hotter temperatures over the long weekend, particularly in the southern Interior, where campfires are prohibited.

The weather office has issued heat warnings for several areas, including the Fraser Canyon, the Okanagan, the South Thompson region and the Kootenays, where daily highs are expected to reach into the upper 30s before cooling after the weekend.

The North Thompson will see temperatures in the low- to mid-30s, and another warning says much of eastern Vancouver Island will see daily highs into the 20s.

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A smoky skies bulletin is also in effect for East Columbia and Arrow and Slocan lakes areas in southeastern B.C., a hot spot for many active wildfires.

Dry lightning strikes sparked dozens of new fires in that area last month, pushing B.C.’s wildfire total above 400 before the arrival of rain and cooler temperatures.

The B.C. government says hundreds of people remain on evacuation order, many of whom have been forced from their homes due to fires in the Kootenay region.

The BC Wildfire Service says 40 per cent of the roughly 340 active blazes across the province are burning out of control, with eight new starts in the last 24 hours.

Just over 70 fires are classified as “being held” and 129 are “under control.”

There are more than 1,600 firefighting personnel, 200 structure protection workers, and more than 180 aircraft currently deployed across the province.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 1, 2024.

The Canadian Press