Several new wildfire starts in B.C.’s Coastal Fire Centre are believed to have been caused by lightning strikes after recent thunderstorms rolled in.
Four wildfires — which are now burning out of control — were sparked by lightning in the last 24 hours, according to the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS).
Two of the blazes are near Chehalis Lake, one is near Harrison, and the other is near Alouette Lake.
While the latest blazes are believed to have been started in the last day, the BCWS says it is possible for a wildfire to appear days or even weeks after a lightning strike.
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“A strike may leave behind heat deep in tree roots, stumps, or underground organic material without immediately creating visible flames or smoke, especially if the storm also brought rain,” the service said.
“Then, days or weeks later, as conditions become hotter, drier, and windier, that hidden heat can begin to spread and ignite nearby fuels, eventually becoming a visible wildfire.”
Despite these new fires, the BCWS says a campfire ban put in place across the region last week will be rescinded as of noon on Friday.
“Current and forecast conditions have since shifted, bringing cooler temperatures, improved humidity values and an overall reduction in wildfire hazard throughout the Coastal Fire Centre,” it said.
“Because of this, Category 1 campfires will be once again permitted under the Coastal Fire Centre jurisdiction.”
As of Wednesday, there were 33 wildfires across B.C., nine of which listed as out of control.