Something we've never seen before: BC Wildfire Service reports 40 fires of note
The BC Wildfire Service said while overall, the number of wildfires burning is trending downward, the number of wildfires of note is at 40 -- an unprecedented number. A wildfire is considered of note when it is highly visible, or threatens people or structures.
"This is something that we have not seen before," said Fire Information Officer Karley Desrosiers.
As of Monday at 1 p.m., 256 wildfires were reported to be burning across the province. That number is lower than it was earlier this month, but the risk remains, especially in the southeast, where there's been no reprieve from higher-than-average temperatures.
The early and aggressive start to the wildfire season means firefighters are stretched to capacity. Reinforcements from across B.C., Canada and Mexico, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces, joined the fight Monday. Desrosiers said 500 more people were expected on the front lines Monday, compared to Friday.
Later this week the province expects an additional 34 firefighters from Australia to help in the fight.
"We are still in the phase of triage fires based on based on the main priorities, which are human life, structures, wildlife and economic values. And not all of the fires that are currently burning are able to be resourced," she explained.
The Nk'Mip Creek wildfire continues to burn, and Incident Commander Jane Park explained the crew from Mexico will help with that fire.
"We are extremely grateful for their assistance given how short the resources have been here in the province," she said.
The fire, which is burning in Osoyoos, continues to grow, but due to heavy smoke, officials say they can't say how large it is.
The Thomas Creek wildfire in the Okanagan continues to burn. Officials said there has been significant fire activity.
A landmark cabin was saved by firefigthers battling high winds. They burned small pieces of dry fuel around the cabin to direct the fire away from it. Mike McCulley from the BCWildfire Service said it worked.
"The cabin is still standing," he explained, calling it a win.
Despite the win, McCulley said there was growth and more evacuation orders may be on the way. As of Monday afternoon, there was no change.
More than 4,000 properties are ordered evacuated; another 17,000-plus are on alert.
Many regions blanketed by smoke are popular summer vacation destinations. The wildfire service says smoke may be visible from highways, and those travelling should know specifics about where to find fire information for where they're headed.
"Know where the fires are in the area that you are going. Be make sure you are aware of any area restrictions, evacuation alerts or orders in those areas. Be prepared to leave at any moment should there be a new evacuation order and alert implemented and make sure that if you are traveling to to an unfamiliar area that you are aware of which regional district and or local municipality governs that region so you know where to get that most of that up to date and accurate information," added Desrosiers.
This is a developing news story.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Police arrest 3 in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.
Five areas Canada's foreign interference commissioner says needs more investigation
Commissioner Marie-Josee Hogue released her interim report examining foreign election interference on Friday. Here are five elements of the issue that Hogue says she needs to further probe before she can make conclusions or recommendations.
Police officer hit by driver of fleeing vehicle in Toronto
York Regional Police say they are continuing to search for a suspect in an auto theft investigation who was captured on video running over a police officer in Toronto last month.
Why your airfare may be getting more expensive
Skyrocketing airfare prices are linked to heightened competition and rising food and fuel, according to the CAA.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
New weight-loss drug Wegovy not a 'magic bullet,' doctor warns
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.
Funeral today for broadcasting legend and voice of 'Hockey Night in Canada' Bob Cole
A funeral is being held today for hockey broadcasting legend Bob Cole in his hometown of St. John's, N.L.
Foreign meddling 'did not affect' overall federal election results: inquiry report
Foreign interference by China did not affect the overall results of the 2019 and 2021 general elections won by Justin Trudeau's Liberals, a federal commission of inquiry has found.