The Northwest Fire Centre has responded to five new fires this week, as warm and dry weather continues throughout the region.
The largest of these fires is located on the north side of Babine Lake (just south of Cunningham Lake) and is estimated at six hectares. Gaining
access to this fire is a challenge for fire crews, so air tankers are being used to slow the fire’s spread until ground crews arrive on site.
This fire is believed to be a “holdover” fire, which means that it was originally sparked by lightning that moved through the area earlier this
season. The fire likely remained dormant or very small until recent hot and dry weather caused it to grow and become visible. Smoke may be visible from Pendleton Bay, Donald Landing and Pinkut Fishery.
Other fires this week include a second holdover fire and a fire caused by spontaneous combustion in a sawdust pile.
All of these fires are reminders that, even though summer weather is giving way to autumn conditions, fire hazard ratings remain elevated throughout much of the region. Significant areas of the Cassiar Fire Zone and Nadina Fire Zone are experiencing a “high” fire danger rating. Many other areas, including Smithers and Hazelton, have a “moderate” fire danger rating.
