(Vancouver) If the number of forest fires is relatively stable in British Columbia, their danger remains alarming for the authorities.
–
–
The BC Wildfire Service reported 241 active forest fires on its territory on Saturday morning, one less than the day before and 17 fewer than seven days ago.
At the worst of the disaster, there were around 300 active fires.
Most blazes are burning in the Kamloops, Prince George, Cariboo and Southeast areas.
The province has 60 evacuation orders in effect, up from 62 the day before. Some 3,120 properties are affected. Ninety-seven alerts have also been issued, meaning that residents must be ready to leave their homes at any time.
PHOTO MIKE FITZPATRICK, VIA REUTERS
More than 3,000 firefighters battled the flames, including nearly 300 from outside the province. The total area of the inflamed areas so far amounts to 4,707.84 square kilometers.
–
More than 3,000 firefighters battled the flames, including nearly 300 from outside the province. The total area of the inflamed areas so far amounts to 4,707.84 square kilometers.
Derek Lee, an Environment Canada meteorologist, said a heat warning has been issued for all of British Columbia. However, the temperature is not expected to be as hot as it was during last month’s heatwave. It had reached 31.7 degrees Celsius in Vancouver and nearly 50 degrees Celsius in Lytton, a few hours before this village was almost completely devastated by the flames.
“The temperature this weekend is just above normal for several areas of southern British Columbia. That’s why we issued a heat warning for these regions, ”he said.
Temperatures are expected to cool over the weekend.
Drought conditions hit part of the Interior region, all of Vancouver Island. Several municipalities have had to put in place water conservation measures.
–
