BC Wildfire Service has now classified the wildfire 12 km north of Kitselas Rd. as “under control,” signifying that it’s not expected to spread any further due to successful suppression efforts. The Kitselas fire, which was discovered on June 3 at 5:40 a.m., has now burned a total of one hectare, marking a decrease from earlier reports of three hectares.
Officials believe the Kitselas fire, like the other two detected in the vicinity, was likely sparked by human activity. Despite the initial resistance to suppression efforts, BC Wildfire Service has successfully managed to control the fire with two initial attack crews and a helicopter deployed at the site.
Of the three wildfires that the BC Wildfire Service is currently managing in the Terrace area, the one discovered on June 2 near New Remo remains classified as “being held.” It has burned less than a hectare and is not expected to extend beyond its current boundaries.
READ MORE: BC Wildfire Service raises fire danger rating in Terrace amid heightened wildfire risk
The third fire, located 14.6 km down the Zymoetz River, is also now classified as “under control.” Despite initial difficulties, the fire has been prevented from spreading further and has also charred less than a hectare.
BC Wildfire Service had raised Terrace’s fire danger rating to “high” on May 31, highlighting the increased risk of wildfires due to the region’s exceptionally dry forest conditions. However, recent rainfall on June 3 and 4 appears to have aided fire suppression efforts, contributing to the change in status of the Kitselas and Zymoetz River fires.
Despite recent successes, conditions in Terrace remain conducive to wildfires, with May’s rainfall significantly below average and temperatures well above the norm. The city saw 26.6 mm of rainfall last month, while the normal is 56.4 mm, making it the 23rd driest May on record. Last month was also Terrace’s fourth-warmest May, with an average temperature of 13.8C in the city, while the normal is 10.6C.
In response to the ongoing risk, BC Wildfire Service continues to enforce a Category 2 and 3 fire ban for the Northwest Fire Centre, including the Skeena Fire Zone, which was put in place on May 18.
BC Wildfire Service urges the public to adhere to fire bans and exercise caution to prevent further wildfires.
Viktor Elias joined the Terrace Standard in April 2023.
Tips or story ideas? (250) 638-7283 ext. 5411 or viktor.elias@terracestandard.com.
Like the Terrace Standard on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.