Since April 1, the Southeast Fire Centre has seen a total of 207 fires, which have burned 320 hectares. The five-year average for this time of year is 190 fires.
A statement from the Southeast Fire Centre said that since last Thursday, there have been 88 new lightning-caused fires in the Southeast Fire Centre.
Despite this surge in wildfire activity, there are currently no homes, roads, or other structures threatened by any of these wildfires.
Currently, there are 62 fires burning in the southeast, and all but two of these are lightning-caused. However, every person-caused fire is preventable and these incidents may delay our crews from responding to naturally occurring fires.
The fine for lighting, fueling, or using a campfire against regulation is $345. If a fire escapes, you may be held liable for all suppression costs.
Multiple lightning systems are forecasted to move through the region in coming days, and hot, dry conditions have kept the fire-danger rating ‘high’ in several areas with pockets of ‘extreme’ fire danger in the north Columbia region.
“The numerous phone reports received from the public over the last few days allowed us to respond to wildfires quickly and efficiently, and we thank everyone who took the time to notify us of fire starts,” the statement said.
To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1-800-663-5555, or *5555 on most cellular networks. For more information on open fire restrictions, or updates on current wildfire activity, visit: www.bcwildfire.ca
