As temperatures again creep into the 30s, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District is warning that hot, dry conditions could result in new fires starting up.
"The cooler, wetter weather pattern has now shifted back to hot and dry conditions, including the possibility for dry lightning in the Shuswap over the coming days," reads an Aug. 1 media release. "This could result in new fires starting in the area."
The CSRD is strongly advising residents to prepare for possible evacuations if their community is affected by wildfire, and have grab-and-go bags ready and an emergency plan in place. The district also encourages people to sign up for its Alertable app to get evacuation information sent directly to them.
As of Thursday at 3 p.m., however, no significant growth has been reported on the only fire of note in the Shuswap, the Mara Mountain wildfire near Sicamous.
It remains at the 290 hectares in size it reached on July 27, but is still classified as out of control. The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) currently has 21 ground personnel onsite, with helicopters continuing to bucket as needed.
Pilots are drawing water from Mara Lake and, despite previous requests, are still having problems with boaters getting in the way and are reminded to avoid the area where and when helicopters are working.
Updates can be found on the BCWS website.
