Changing conditions in Prince George Fire Centre this long weekend



PRINCE GEORGE – This long weekend, hot temperatures and high winds are forecast across the Prince George Fire Centre (PGFC), with a thermal trough expected to generate north/northwesterly winds across all zones.

These conditions are being caused by an upper ridge now in place over B.C., leading to generally sunny, warm and dry conditions across the PGFC for several days. As this ridge interacts with systems of low pressure over the coming days, parts of the PGFC could see thunderstorms with the potential for dry lightning. Impacted areas include the very far Northeast, and south of Highway 16, including the Robson Valley.

As a result, there is potential for new starts from lightning, the emergence of holdover fires from historical lightning, and it is likely that there will be increased activity on existing wildfires particularly in the VanJam, Robson Valley and Fort Nelson Zones. North and northwesterly winds forecast for Saturday could make smoke columns from active fires more visible and lead to smoke impacts in communities south of existing fires.

While Category 1 (campfires) open burning is currently permitted in the PGFC, it is critically important that everyone do their part to prevent unnecessary human-caused wildfires. Regardless of the conditions in your area, residents and recreationalists are urged to exercise caution and to practice responsible fire use as human-caused wildfires are preventable and divert critical resources away from naturally-caused fires.

The PGFC encourages individuals preparing to go camping to include reviewing current bans and restrictions in your area, current/forecasted weather and current wildfire activity as part of your pre-departure checklist. As well, for any individuals heading out into the backcountry, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with significant safety hazards that may exist in areas impacted by wildfire.

The public is one of our greatest resources when it comes to reporting wildfires. Approximately 40% of wildfires are reported by members of the public.

There are a number of ways to report:

  • Call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free
  • Call *5555 from a cell phone
  • Submit directly through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app

Make a plan before you go, and check for:

And stay up-to-date on the latest BC Wildfire news on:

Contact:

Prince George Fire Information Team
BC Wildfire Service | Ministry of Forests

250-561-4629

INFOPG@gov.bc.ca Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect