There are currently 178 wildfires burning across the province. Of these wildfires, 52% are classified as Being Held or Under Control.
Holdover fires resulting from widespread lightning continue to be detected in most fire centres. Initial attack continues to be successful in keeping most new fire starts below one hectare.
Since the last status update, the Keremeos Creek and Weasel Creek fires are no longer considered Wildfires of Note. However, due to predicted weather trends, fire activity continues to increase in eastern regions of the province, and three new wildfires of note have emerged today.
Conditions are expected to remain hot and dry through the long weekend, however, temperatures will drop to below seasonal by the end of next week.
Tomorrow, campfire bans are being rescinded in the Southeast, Kamloops, and sections of the Coastal Fire Centre. It’s important to be aware of the bans and restrictions in your region and continue to practice safe fire use.
Weather forecast
Temperatures throughout the province continue to rise and will remain above seasonal until mid-to-late next week. There is no lightning forecast today or tomorrow, but an off-shore trough will bring unstable conditions as it passes through the province over the weekend. While there is no rain anticipated, this weather system is expected to cause increased winds in the Peace, the Cariboo Fire Centre and throughout southern regions of the province.
Wildfires of Note
Fire bans and restrictions
The next Provincial Wildfire Status Update will be provided on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.
Campfire safety
With campfire bans being lifted in many regions around the province, there are still steps you need to take to enjoy a campfire safely:
- Keep your campfire to half-metre by half-metre. Have a shovel and 8 litres of water on hand to extinguish the fire.
- Always ensure that a fire is cool to the touch before you leave the campsite for any length of time or go to bed for the night. Hot embers can reignite, especially in warm weather.
- Never leave your campfire unattended.
Remember, anyone who leaves a campfire unattended for any length of time may be fined up to $1,150 while anyone whose campfire causes a wildfire may also be subject to a penalty of $100,000 and one year in jail along with any costs associated with fighting the fire and damages. There is no excuse for having a non-compliant campfire.
Use common sense this long weekend while enjoying the outdoors.