More than 200 outside personnel to aid B.C. wildfire response

More than 200 personnel from outside B.C. are expected to join the province’s wildfire response as conditions continue to support aggressive fire behaviour.

The BC Wildfire Service said dozens of firefighters from Alberta and Yukon will arrive this week, followed by more than 100 personnel from Mexico after the August long weekend. Spokesperson Jean Strong cited a multi-year drought, hot and windy weather, and dry lightning as factors increasing the risk of rapid growth.

As of Sunday morning, B.C. had 145 active wildfires, including 69 classified as out of control. Evacuation alerts and orders remained in effect in dozens of locations, and structural losses had been reported near Boston Bar and Clinton.

The provincial response included 974 firefighters, 162 aviation resources, 130 pieces of heavy equipment and 248 structure-protection personnel. Strong said outside help will add capacity and allow local crews to rest.

Although heat warnings had ended, dry fuels, warm weather and limited rain remained concerns. Air-quality warnings were also in effect in parts of the province because smoke can shift quickly and pose greater risks to people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant people, young children, seniors and others with health vulnerabilities.