The Southeast Fire Centre has responded to 81 wildfires since Monday, July 20, five of which were lightning-caused.
Ground crews, with assistance from helicopters and airtankers, are working to contain and extinguish the fires, and as of Thursday July 24, 39 fires had already been contained.
The Ministry of Forest, Lands and Natural Resources Operations is warning residents that although the new fires are currently not a threat to structures or communities, smoke from some of them may be visible in nearby populated areas.
Industry personnel and members of the public are being cautioned to be careful in or around forests and grasslands, as person-caused fires divert resources that are currently needed for lightning-caused fires.
The fire danger rating is “moderate” to “low” in the majority of the Columbia region.
Since April 1, a total of 368 fires have ignited in the Southeast Fire Centre, burning 2,012 hectares.
The fires are the result of a repeating pattern of lightning storms, accompanied by variable amounts of precipitation.
To report a wildfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.