Much of the smoke that’s currently visible in parts of the Southeast Fire Centre is not coming from wildfires in B.C., but instead emanating from fires in Oregon, California and Washington.

Smoke can travel long distances depending on the prevailing winds, but there are currently no new fires in the Southeast that would create the amount of smoke that’s now moving through the area, reported BC Wildfire Service August 4.

However, people in the Invermere and Kimberley areas may also see smoke from five wildfires that have burned a total of 615 hectares east of Riondel and Boswell, in the St. Mary’s Valley and Redding Creek regions.

Provincial government ecologists have determined that fire could help increase biodiversity at the five sites, so those particular fires are being allowed to burn as “modified response” fires under the supervision of BC Wildfire Service personnel.

Continued hot and dry conditions may result in periods of increased fire behaviour, but these wildfires are being monitored by BC Wildfire Service personnel to ensure that they remain within pre-established boundaries and are not exhibiting significant growth.

To report a wildfire or an open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

Lead image: A Lord Strathcona Musical Ride soldier at Fort Steele Heritage Town Sunday evening (August 2). The Rockies were a blurry haze in the background from all the smoke during the riding performance. More images will be published shortly.

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