Fire Season Summary

The month of August was characterized by a repeating pattern of hot dry weather followed by thunderstorms and new lightning fires. Over 98,000 lightning strikes were recorded in the month of August resulting in 759 lighting-caused wildfires concentrated over southern British Columbia. In contrast, the province has experienced one of the lowest human-caused wildfire seasons since 1950. 85 per cent of the 889 new fire starts in August were lightning caused.

September Outlook

An above normal spike in new wildfires over the later half of August is giving way to a decreasing trend in new wildfire starts, and that is expected to continue into the fall. Warmer than normal temperatures are also expected through the month of September. Elevated fire danger and fire activity will continue in the southwest and northeast corners of the province if these areas do not receive precipitation. These areas have high and above normal build-up index values for this time of year which indicates forest fuels are available to burn. Stronger winds and grass curing are additional concerns as we transition into fall weather patterns. Wildfires in 2022 have burned 43,644 ha which is only 17% of the 20-year average for this time of year. Although area burned in 2022 is below average, any size wildfire has the potential to threaten public safety and impact human values.