As the sun sets a helicopter prepares to dump water on a blaze near Williams Lake, BC Wednesday, July 12, 2017. Jason Payne – Vancouver Sun

After a devastating forest fire season in 2017, tougher penalties in an effort to reduce wildfire risk, have been made law this year – ahead of the dry season. Read more about new failure to comply measures put into law.

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It is common for summer temperatures to peak between 30-35 degrees Celsius during the summer months in the Southern Interior. Coupled with long stretches of dry, sunny weather, and low relative humidity. 

Fire Rating July 17th, 2018. Natural Resources Canada.

Hot and dry weather will be the story through the beginning of this week with the Southern Interior reaching the low 30s. In Kamloops, an air quality statement, together with a heat warning have been issued. A respite from the heat is expected mid-week with the arrival of upper-level trough. 

As early as Thursday & Friday, cooler temperatures will spread across the Interior. A chance of rain and cloudier conditions will be welcomed in some communities – but others who see lightning could see new fires.

Current forest fires burning in British Columbia. 

On Vancouver Island, sunny and pleasant conditions are expected to persistent for many days. Coupled with low-humidity, the Victoria vicinity will see rising fire ratings. 

Unfortunately, high-pressure will return to British Columbia next week. Temperatures will once again soar into the high 20s or 30s. The dry season may persist well into August this year.