Nearly Half of Those Fires Are Considered Out of Control, According to the BC Wildfire Service

Nearly half of those fires are considered out of control, according to the BC Wildfire Service. "We are currently in a complex and rapidly evolving emergency response here in B. C., said Kevin Dunbar, executive director of provincial response and recovery operations. "There are currently states of local emergencies in effect for First Nations and local authorities across the province.

Since Saturday, strong winds and changing conditions have triggered evacuation orders and alerts in several regions. The wildfire service reported Sunday that dozens of new fires had ignited and expanded quickly due to high winds and lightning strikes, with about 30 sparked in the past day. Dunbar said it's not yet safe to assess how many structures have been damaged.

"It isn't necessarily safe for folks to go in and really take stock of structure loss and impacts, he said. "When it is safe to do so and when they're able to, local authorities, local governments and First Nations will go in and do a damage assessment. Cliff Miller with BC Wildfire Service said a cold front moving through the southern part of the province had "very significant impacts" on existing and new fires.

He noted drought conditions in southern B. C. are at record levels, creating "explosive" fire behaviour, and that communities under evacuation orders face the highest risk. With more fires anticipated, Miller said the province has "significant resources" arriving over the next three weeks, including crews from Mexico, Australia, and Alberta. More than 500 contractors are engaged, along with 130 aviation helicopters and a full air tanker fleet.

While the cold front has passed, officials warn of continued risk into August. A drop in temperature and an "uptick" in relative humidity are expected over the next few days, but with little chance of rain. "So it will give us a chance on some of these fires and to not see that explosive growth over the next 48 hours, Miller said.

Another high-pressure system could bring warm, dry conditions, though lighter winds may help suppress fires in the coming days. Dunbar urged residents in at-risk communities to pre-register for emergency support services, update their emergency plans, and prepare grab-and-go bags with 72 hours of supplies for every household member, including pets. "We know that this is a very difficult and stressful time for those who've been evacuated, he said.