Special weather statement in effect for B.C. Interior, increasing wildfire risk: Environment Canada
Posted August 16, 2023 7:05 pm.
Last Updated August 16, 2023 7:06 pm.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for B.C.’s Interior, saying strong winds and a risk of thunderstorms are expected on Thursday and Friday.
According to the statement, gusty winds shifting from southwest to northwest could worsen wildfire conditions and possibly start new fires. In addition, these winds increase the risk of breaking tree branches as drought-stricken trees are more susceptible to winds.
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“Widespread southwesterly winds of 30 km/h gusting 50 will develop Thursday morning and switch to northwesterly 20 km/h gusting 50 Thursday midday (Central Interior) or overnight and into Friday (southern interior) as a dry cold front passes,” the statement said.
“Instability along the cold front may lead to the development of thunderstorms Thursday afternoon and evening, The main hazard is localized severe winds with speeds up to or above 70 km/h and dry lightning (lightning that comes with little or no rain).”
BC Wildfire Service website shows roughly 368 active fires across B.C., including 149 ranked as out-of-control. In total, 315 fires are considered to have been caused by lightning.
