British Columbia is preparing for potential wildfire activity as thunderstorms are expected in the forecast. The province has already been facing a challenging wildfire season, with over 1,000 fires burning since April.
According to the BC Wildfire Service, there are currently 299 active wildfires in the province, with 40 of them being classified as “wildfires of note.” These are fires that are highly visible or pose a potential threat to public safety.
The upcoming thunderstorms are a cause for concern as they could bring strong winds and lightning strikes, which can ignite new fires or cause existing ones to spread. The BC Wildfire Service has issued a warning for increased fire danger in the southern and central interior regions of the province.
In response to the potential threat, the BC Wildfire Service has increased its resources, including personnel and equipment, to be ready for any new fire starts. They have also implemented a fire ban in the Cariboo, Kamloops, and Southeast fire centres, prohibiting campfires, open fires, and the use of fireworks.
The province is also urging residents and visitors to be cautious and follow all fire safety regulations. This includes properly extinguishing cigarettes, not leaving campfires unattended, and avoiding any activities that could potentially spark a fire.
The BC Wildfire Service is also reminding the public that drones are not allowed within a radius of five nautical miles of a wildfire. This is to ensure the safety of firefighting aircraft and personnel.
The province has also activated its Emergency Operations Centre to coordinate the response to the wildfires and potential thunderstorms. The centre will work closely with local authorities and First Nations communities to ensure a coordinated and effective response.
The BC government has also announced that it will be providing additional funding to support wildfire response efforts. This includes funding for emergency social services, such as food and shelter for evacuees, as well as support for impacted communities and businesses.
As the province braces for potential wildfire activity, it is important for everyone to stay informed and follow all safety measures. The BC Wildfire Service will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed.
