Central Okanagan

Photo: Contributed - Natural Resources Canada

Forest fire hot spots Sept. 24, 2012.

Cooler weather is on the way to the Okanagan, but it might not be enough to significantly reduce the fire threat in the Okanagan Valley.

Above seasonal dry and hot weather fuelled dozens of forest fires in the Okanagan Valley over the past two weeks, according to BC’s Wildfire Management Branch.

Fire crews have contained the most recent of fires at White Lake and Bear Main Service Road and are remaining on scene.

But some relief may be on the way.

With autumn officially underway now and a new cold front approaching, temperatures are expected to drop to the mid- to low 20s starting Tuesday through to Saturday.

“The cooler temperatures will definitely lower the fire threat, but we really need to see some precipitation,” said Michaela Swan, fire information officer for the Kamloops fire region.

Environment Canada’s forecast for the Okanagan shows highs of only 21 Tuesday with a much-needed 40 per cent increase of showers overnight. However, the rest of the week is forecast to remain dry and sunny.

A haze created by wildfires burning throughout the province and in northern Washington State continues to linger in the valley. Meanwhile, the South, Central, and North Okanagan air quality index is currently at level 2, low risk.
Monday’s temperatures are expected to reach a high of 26.