Vancouver: The director of provincial operations for the B.C. Wildfire Service said the next 24 to 48 hours could be the most challenging of the summer for wildfire crews.
Cliff Chapman said an incoming cold front will create significant, sustained winds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour as it hits the high-pressure system that has brought days of record heat to central and southern B.C.
Chapman said gusts of 60 kilometres per hour can be expected and, along with lightning that will accompany the front, he says a “significant” number of new fires are expected.
Chapman joined Forest Minister Bruce Ralston and Emergency Management Minister Bowinn Ma at a briefing on Thursday, and he urged everyone to comply with evacuation orders if they are issued. — Canadian Press