The haze over the mountains around Terrace is either from wildfires down south or out east, according to the Northwest Fire Centre.
“This smoke is expected to linger in the area for the next few days,” says Olivia Pojar, spokesperson for Northwest Fire Centre, adding that it is smoke from wildfires in the Cariboo Fire Centre, which includes Williams Lake or the Prince George Fire Centre, which includes the central and northeast areas.
“Smoke concentrations can vary widely, depending on wind activity, fire behaviour and changes in temperatures. Hot and dry conditions are in the weather forecast for this week and could lead to an increase in fire activity and the amount of visible smoke,” said Pojar.
“There are currently no active wildfires in the Northwest Fire Centre,” added Pojar.
Despite rumours, there weren’t any new fires near Smithers, said Pojar.
“There were no fires in the Kispiox Valley over the long weekend. This is a rumour. Members of the public were reporting convective clouds and general smoke as a wildfire,” she said.
The Northwest Fire Centre is currently experiencing elevated fire danger ratings, ranging from “high” to “extreme” throughout the region, said Pojar.
The public is urged to remain vigilant in the backcountry and be extremely careful with any recreational activity that could potentially spark a wildfire, she said.
The BC Wildfire Service reminds the public that all types of open burning, including campfires, are prohibited throughout the Northwest Fire Centre.
Anyone who sees open flames or a distinct column of smoke should call *5555 on a cellphone or 1-800-663-5555 toll-free right away and provide as much detail as possible.
To see the current smoke forecast for Western Canada, visit: http://firesmoke.ca/forecasts/BSC00WC04/current/
For the latest information about air quality, check: www.bcairquality.ca
– the original story indicated that smoke in the Terrace area may be from the Cariboo Fire Centre only. –