Relentless dry, hot and windy weather fans fires in northeastern B.C.
FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Weather continues to be the main challenge for crews fighting a series of wildfires in northeastern B.C., including a large blaze that has crossed the provincial boundary into Alberta.
The Siphon Creek fire entered Alberta late Thursday and is now burning one or two kilometres into the province, said BC Wildfire Service spokesman Kevin Skrepnek.
He said the fire is estimated to be about 170-square kilometres and remains uncontained after being sparked April 18, about 60 kilometres northeast of Fort St. John.
Forests Minister Steve Thomson said 77 B.C. firefighters, nine helicopters and heavy equipment are fighting flames on both sides of the boundary in an effort to help their Alberta counterparts who are busy dealing with a devastating fire in Fort McMurray.