B.C.'s dry spell fuels Vancouver Island wildfires, air quality set to worsen
Prolonged dry conditions in B.C. have intensified drought concerns, sparking several new wildfires over the weekend. Smoke from Vancouver Island may affect areas from Victoria to the Okanagan
Persistent dry conditions across British Columbia have allowed the wildfire season to extend into the start of fall.
The Mount Jack wildfire, discovered Sunday west of Victoria, remains out of control, as rainfall in the region has been well below average.
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In Vancouver, only 2.5 mm of rain has been recorded in September so far, significantly below the monthly average of 51.9 mm. Victoria has seen just 1.8 mm, compared to a typical 35.7 mm.
Air quality to deteriorate across the Lower Mainland Wednesday
Winds from the southwest are expected to push wildfire smoke into the Lower Mainland by Tuesday evening, with air quality deteriorating across the region by Wednesday morning.
However, a cold front arriving Wednesday evening is forecast to bring light showers, which should help ease fire conditions.
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A low pressure system over Washington will also draw Pacific moisture to B.C.’s southern coast.
After an 18-day stretch without measurable rain in Vancouver, the return of rainfall will be beneficial.
The South Coast is expected to receive 20-30 mm of rain by Saturday, offering some much-needed relief from the prolonged dry weather.
Be sure to stay updated on the latest weather and wildfire conditions across British Columbia.