Officials in British Columbia are advising residents to stay vigilant while outdoors this weekend due to a series of wildfires occurring earlier than usual. As of Thursday at 5 p.m. PT, the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) reported 19 active fires across the province, with the majority being human-caused and five deemed out of control.
The BCWS had previously highlighted the impact of a warm and dry winter on certain regions, potentially increasing the wildfire risk this summer. In response, the Coastal Fire Centre issued a cautionary advisory for residents in southwest B.C. regarding open burning activities during the weekend.
According to fire information officer Julia Caranci, the current weather conditions, known as outflow conditions, are leading to a decrease in relative humidity due to warm, dry air moving from the Interior to coastal valleys. As a precautionary measure, people are urged to exercise care when using open fires, especially in the coming days.
While there are no widespread bans on burning at the moment, Caranci emphasized the importance of using common sense and being cautious, particularly when starting larger fires. The fire danger map indicates that most areas in B.C. are at a moderate risk level, with isolated pockets showing high to extreme fire danger.
In northern B.C., concerns have been raised by Mark Parker, chair of the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako, regarding the early onset of wildfires. Despite healthy snowpack levels in the mountains, dry grass in the valleys poses a significant risk. Parker urged the public to be aware of the existing danger and exercise caution while enjoying outdoor activities over the weekend.