Smith River Blaze 35% Contained

By 250 News

Prince George, B.C.-  Cooler temperatures and precipitation have slowed fire activity west of the Rocky Mountains, but there is still a risk for wildfires to ignite in some areas.

Although current temperatures are cooler, it only takes a few days of dry, warm weather for danger ratings to increase along with the risk for fire starts. This risk is especially prominent in the Peace region where the fire danger rating is currently high to extreme.

The Smith River Fire is an estimated 23,182 hectares and is 35% contained. The Alaska Highway remains open with possible delays due to smoke. There are 96 fire fighters, 30 support staff, 6 helicopters and 7 pieces of heavy machinery working this fire. Continued efforts are focused on containing the west side of the fire to further protect the communities and highway.

The Prophet River fire is an estimated 329 hectares. There are 62 fire fighters on scene and 2 helicopters. The fire is 30% contained at this time. The fire is 500 metres to the east of the Alaska Highway, which is not immediately threatened at this time.

The fire danger rating is currently moderate throughout most of the Prince George Fire Centre with areas of high in the Peace region.

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