East Kootenay Fires grew in count from lightning strikes across southeastern British Columbia, triggering several new wildfire starts while firefighters continued working on the Lussier River wildfire near Premier Lake.

According to the BC Wildfire Service, more than 4,000 lightning strikes were recorded across British Columbia. The Southeast Fire Centre recorded 1,326 lightning strikes, second only to the Coastal Fire Centre with 1,382 strikes. The Cariboo Fire Centre recorded 858 strikes.

With the storm system expected to move into Alberta, additional lightning strikes are anticipated, along with the potential for more wildfire starts as hot, dry conditions return in the coming days.

New Wildfires Near Meachen

Three new lightning-caused wildfires were discovered in the Meachen area, west of St. Mary Lake.

Meachen Creek (N10943)

Cause: Lightning
Size: 0.009 hectares
Status: BC Wildfire Service responding

Tower Creek (N10944)

Cause: Lightning
Size: 0.009 hectares
Status: BC Wildfire Service responding

Tower Creek #2 (N10947)

Cause: Lightning
Size: 0.009 hectares
Status: BC Wildfire Service responding

BC Wildfire Service has assigned one helicopter to the cluster of fires, where it is conducting bucketing operations.

Lussier River Wildfire (N20809)

According to the BC Wildfire Service, the Lussier River wildfire (N20809) remains estimated at 115 hectares and is being held.

Increased cloud cover has cooled temperatures and increased relative humidity. Fire behaviour has not increased, although smoke may still be visible.

Firefighters are establishing a 10-foot-wide wetline along the control line to help prevent the fire from spreading beyond containment.

Helicopters remain assigned to the incident and are available to support containment efforts if required.

The BC Wildfire Service reports there are currently no area restrictions near the wildfire.

Boaters on Columbia Lake and Premier Lake are reminded to clear the area and remain near shore when firefighting aircraft are operating. Water-skimming aircraft often work in groups, so additional aircraft may be approaching even if only one is visible.

Transport Canada and the BC Wildfire Service also remind the public that drones are prohibited near wildfires. Unauthorized drone activity can force firefighting aircraft to suspend operations until the airspace is safe.

With thunderstorms forecast to continue over the next several days, early reporting remains critical.

If you see smoke or a wildfire:

Report it using the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.
Call 1-800-663-5555 from a landline.
Dial *5555 from a cellphone.

For the latest wildfire information, visit www.bcwildfire.ca.