BC Wildfire Service crews battle lightning-caused wildfire north of Balfour
By The Nelson Daily Staff
BC Wildfire Service crews in the Southeast Fire Centre were busy Wednesday responding to a wildfire north of Balfour.
BC Wildfire Service said on Twitter that the Knob fire is burning four kilometers north of Balfour.
“The fire is about 0.5 (hectare) and is lightning caused,” BC Wildfire Service said.
BC Wildfire Service said personnel and aircraft are responding and the fire was visible from Nelson, Highway 31 and communities in and around Balfour.
“No structures (are) threatened at this time,” BC Wildfire Service said.
The wildfire comes as the province braces for an intense heatwave, with temperatures expected to range into the high 30s and low 40s over the next week.
Environment Canada has issued a Heat Warning for much of the province, including the West Kootenay and Boundary regions.
“A dangerous long duration heat wave will affect B.C. beginning on Saturday and lasting until Tuesday,” Environment Canada website said.
“(The threat of) daytime highs ranging from 35 to 40 degrees celsius combined with overnight lows of 20 to 22 degrees Celsius (are expected),” Environment Canada said.
Environment Canada saidthe Heat Wave is due to an exceptionally strong ridge of high pressure that will develop over British Columbia likely resulting in record breaking temperatures.
“The duration of this heat wave is concerning as there is little relief at night with elevated overnight temperatures,” Environment Canada said.
“This record-breaking heat event will increase the potential for heat-related illnesses and increase the risk of wildfires due to drought conditions.”
The public is urged to drink plenty of water, even before thirst, and stay in a cool place as well as checking on older family, friends and neighbours.
“Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle,” Environment Canada said.
“Watch for the symptoms of heat illness: dizziness/fainting; nausea/vomiting; rapid breathing and heartbeat; extreme thirst; decreased urination with unusually dark urine.”
Environment Canada said outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks in a cool place.
BC Wildfire Service also dealt with a wildfire outside Hope Wednesday.
The Eleven Mile Creek fire is located approximately 13 kilometers southeast of Hope and had grown to 50 hectares in size, burning on steep, rugged terrain away from Highway 3.
BC Wildfire Service said 61 firefighters and four helicopters are battling the blaze.
