Current and forecast weather expected to increase fire activity

A high-pressure system settled over the province last week, creating extremely hot and dry conditions. Over the weekend, temperatures broke 22 daily heat records. These well-above seasonal temperatures paired with compounded years of drought have elevated the wildfire risk across the province.

By midweek, a cold front is forecast to sweep across northern B.C., generating strong winds, thunderstorms and the potential for dry lightning. Given elevated Fire Weather Indices, new wildfire starts are anticipated, particularly in northern regions. Although southern portions of the province will be less impacted by this weather event, the South and Central Interior may experience increased winds and isolated dry lightning. Exact timing is variable depending on location.

The BC Wildfire Service is prepared to respond to new wildfires and increased wildfire activity. Wildfire personnel are constantly monitoring and assessing conditions, and resources are stationed and deployed in alignment with heightened risk.

We ask that all residents and visitors of B.C. familiarize themselves with trusted sources of wildfire information and pay attention to local updates and alerts. Individuals in the vicinity of existing wildfires are encouraged to stay alert and aware of the current wildfire situation as wildfires are dynamic and conditions may change rapidly.

Please adhere to all fire bans and restrictions in your area, including those enforced by your regional district or local authority. To reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, additional fire use restrictions will be issued in the coming days.

Early detection and public reporting is crucial when responding to new wildfire starts. To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, please call 1-800-663-5555 (toll-free), *5555 on a cellphone or submit a report directly through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.

For more information:

Follow the latest wildfire news:

on X (formerly Twitter)
on Facebook
on the free BC Wildfire Service web and mobile app, available to download for Apple and Android devices

Contact:
Provincial Fire Information Team
BC Wildfire Service
250 312-3051
FIREINFO@gov.bc.ca