4 hours ago
Swift News
The BC Wildfire Service's (BCWS) fall seasonal outlook forecasts ongoing wildfire risk for much of the province, especially in the Cariboo and the southwestern Interior.
The province is reminding people to continue to use caution and to take steps to be prepared by staying up to date on current conditions, following fire prohibitions, and being FireSmart, as the risk of wildfire is expected to continue into fall.
Convective thunderstorms typically decrease as fall approaches. However, despite a lower likelihood of wildfires due to lightning, human-caused wildfires remain a risk. Until the southern coast shifts to a stormier fall-like pattern, and the Prince George and Kamloops fire centres receive substantial rainfall, the wildfire danger ratings will continue to be elevated.
As of Saturday, Sept. 20, approximately 126 active wildfires were burning in British Columbia, five of which had started within the previous 24 hours. Sixteen of the fires were considered out of control, 34 were being held, and 76 were under control.
The Cariboo fire centre continues to see several out of control wildfires. The largest — the Itcha Lake fire northeast of Anahim Lake — had grown to 57,560 hectares by Sept. 20. Discovered on Aug. 27, the fire is suspected to have been lightning-caused.
As a result of the late summer's record-breaking heat wave, combined with ongoing drought, people in B.C. are encouraged to be prepared for the risk of wildfire this fall. Open burning prohibitions remain in place throughout B.C., including campfire prohibitions in the Cariboo, Prince George, and Kamloops fire centres and parts of the Coastal fire centre. Always check with local governments, First Nations, and other authorities before starting a campfire.
The BC Wildfire app provides up-to-date information, such as active wildfires, fire prohibitions, and evacuation alerts and orders, as well as weather forecasts. New wildfires can be reported directly in the app or by calling *5555 on a cellphone or 1-800-663-5555 (toll-free).
