Officials in British Columbia are urging residents to remain vigilant while outdoors this weekend as they address several early-season wildfires. By 5 p.m. PT on Thursday, there were 19 active fires across the province, with the majority being human-caused, except for those sparked by lightning. Out of these fires, five were identified as unmanageable.
The B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) pointed out that the warm and dry winter experienced in most parts of the province could increase the risk in certain areas during the upcoming summer months. The Coastal Fire Centre released an advisory on Thursday, cautioning residents in southwest B.C. to exercise care when starting open fires over the weekend.
According to fire information officer Julia Caranci, the region is currently experiencing outflow conditions, characterized by warm, dry air moving from the Interior to the coast through valleys. This weather pattern is expected to significantly lower relative humidity in the coming days. As a precautionary measure, the public is advised to be extremely careful with open fires, especially in the next few days.
Although there are no widespread burning bans in effect yet, Caranci emphasized the importance of using common sense and being cautious when starting large fires. The fire danger map indicated that most of the province was at a moderate risk level as of noon on Thursday, with isolated areas showing high to extreme fire danger.
In response to the early wildfires, Mark Parker, chair of the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako in northern B.C., expressed concern about the dry grass in the valleys despite healthy snowpack levels in the mountains. He emphasized the need for awareness and caution among the public, urging everyone to be mindful of the current fire risks while enjoying outdoor activities this weekend.