Image Credit: BC Wildfire Service

By Adam Berls

wildfire update

Warmer temperatures expected after cooler weather and rain

Aug 10, 2023 | 2:58 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — The province gave their weekly update on the wildfire and drought situation in BC Thursday and while cooler weather has been present this week, a shift in the forecast is expected.

Warmer temperatures are on the way for much of British Columbia starting this weekend. Emergency Management Minister Bowinn Ma says the hot weather is due this weekend following recent days of cooler temperatures and precipitation that have been helping wildfire suppression efforts across the province.

“Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting heat to begin over Vancouver Island and southwest British Columbia and gradually moving across the Southern Interior through the week.” – Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness

Ma is warning people to be prepared for the heat, but a repeat of the 2021 heat dome that killed more than 615 people is not forecast.

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“These temperatures may trigger heat warnings. While these elevated temperatures may pose risks, I do want to assure everyone that this upcoming heat event is not expected to be as extreme as the event that we faced in June and July of 2021. The days are shorter and the nights are longer in August than they are in June, which will allow for extended nighttime cooling temperatures.” – Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness

With the rain and cooler temperatures, this has allowed crews to make progress on wildfires currently burning, but there are still hundreds in B.C. that have been evacuated from their homes.

“As of 3 p.m. on August 9th, there are 660 people under an evacuation order and there are about close to 4000 people under evacuation alert, most of which are in the Central and Southeast regions of the province.” – Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests

Minister Ralston also reminded those who are out on the lake during the summer to be cautious especially on bodies of water that are being used by firefighting aircraft.

We’re reminding recreational boaters to be cautious and diligent on bodies of water that are being used by firefighting aircraft. And please keep away keep boats away from area where aviation resources are operating. Typically, they’re scooping up water to load up the aircraft to dump it on a fire. This reminder also applies to any non firefighting aircraft. Please keep the airspace clear around wildfires. – Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests

For the most up to date information on the wildfire situation in B.C., you can visit the B.C. wildfire service’s website.

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Twitter: @AdamBerls

Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com