The mild, dry winter and spring conditions this year mean a significant wildfire season is possible in Summerland and the rest of the region.
Measurements taken at two snow survey sites near Summerland show the snow pack has already melted.
The dry spring weather has resulted in some large wildfires in the region.
While there were more fires reported at this time last year, the fires reported so far this year are larger in area.
So far this year’s wildfires have been the result of human activity, but in most years, the cause of fires is divided equally between those caused by human activity and those caused by lightning strikes and other natural conditions.
A carelessly discarded cigarette, an abandoned campfire or a dropped match can result in significant damage.
The recovery after a wildfire can take many years.
The constant warnings should not be necessary in the Okanagan Valley. Those who live here and especially those who use the back country should understand and respect the conditions we face.
This is a dry area and anyone who has lived here for more than a few years has seen the effects of wildfires. At times, the fires have come close to populated areas, resulting in evacuation notices and alerts.
As the hot and dry conditions increase, it is likely a campfire ban will be needed to reduce the risk of a devastating fire.
Last summer, the restrictions went even further as Giant’s Head Mountain Park was temporarily closed to motorized vehicles in late July, during the extreme fire hazard at the time.
It is too early to know the full extent of the conditions we have experienced so far this year. If June is a wet month, the danger rating may be lower than if the hot and dry weather continues through the rest of the spring and into the summer.
No matter what the coming weeks will bring, good fire safety practices are essential.
A little carelessness can result in destruction on a massive scale.
