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Wildfire Threat Intensifies Across British Columbia Ahead of Long Weekend
29 Aug
Summary
- 83 active wildfires in B.C. as of August 29, 2025
- 18 fires now classified as out of control
- Thunderstorms could spark new blazes in southern B.C.
As of August 29, 2025, British Columbia is facing a surge in wildfire activity, with 83 active blazes across the province, up from 68 just a few days prior. Eighteen of these fires are now classified as out of control, posing a growing threat to communities.
The B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) has attributed the escalating situation to a prolonged period of hot, dry weather that has left fuels highly susceptible to ignition and rapid spread. Fire information officer Emelie Peacock warned that the risk of increased fire activity remains high, with the potential for thunderstorms over the next few days to spark new blazes, particularly in southern regions of the province.
The BCWS has deployed nearly 280 firefighters, supported by aircraft, heavy equipment, and a structure protection team, to battle the ongoing blazes. However, the agency cautioned that fire seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer due to the impacts of climate change, making the situation increasingly unpredictable.
As the Labour Day long weekend approaches, the B.C. government has issued a reminder about open-burning prohibitions and campfire bans in several fire centers, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and caution to prevent further ignitions.
