13 hours ago
First wildfire of season sparks on B.C.'s South Coast as ‘heat event' continues
Crews were called to the first wildfire of the season on B.C.'s South Coast Sunday, as the region experiences unseasonably hot and dry weather.
The out-of-control blaze sparked west of Port Alberni on Vancouver Island and was estimated at 10 hectares as of 2 p.m., according to the B.C. wildfire service.
The cause has yet to be determined.
B.C. officials warned of the potential for increased fire danger ahead of the weekend, when temperatures began to climb to above seasonal in the southern part of the province.
Special weather statements remain in effect for swathes of B.C. due to what forecasters are calling an 'early season heat event,' according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.
'Early season heat can be significant due to the lack of acclimatization to elevated temperatures,' the agency said, before adding tips on how to stay cool and warning about the risks of high temperatures.
'Watch for the effects of heat illness: heavy sweating, rash, cramps, fainting, high body temperature and the worsening of some health conditions. Fans alone cannot effectively lower core body temperature, especially for older adults.'
Meanwhile, the northern part of the province is seeing aggressive wildfire behaviour, with gusty winds fanning the flames. Ten evacuation orders and five evacuation alerts are in effect as a result, according to the B.C. wildfire service's dashboard.
Smoke is impacting air quality in Fort Nelson and the Peace River region, prompting an advisory from Environment Canada.
'As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events,' the agency said.
'People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors.'
