(Liam Verster / Vernon Matters Staff)

By Liam Verster

Ongoing Drought and Wildfire Risks

Wildfire Service warns of ongoing fire risk as local danger rating remains high

Sep 23, 2025 | 10:35 AM

The B.C. Wildfire Service is urging people be cautious as the ongoing drought conditions pose a risk for fall wildfires.

The Wildfire Service’s (BCWS) seasonal forecast show an ongoing wildfire risk for much of the province, pointing especially to the Southern Interior and Cariboo regions.

The BCWS warns thunderstorm risks “typically decrease as fall approaches,” but warns the possibility of human-caused wildfires persist.

“Until the southern coast shifts to a stormier fall-like pattern and the Prince George and Kamloops fire centres receive substantial rainfall, the wildfire danger ratings will continue to be elevated,” the service said in a release.”

“As a result of the late summer’s record-breaking heat wave, combined with ongoing drought, people in B.C. are encouraged to be prepared for the risk of wildfire this fall. Open-burning prohibitions remain in place throughout B.C., including campfire prohibitions in the Cariboo, Prince George, and Kamloops fire centres and parts of the Coastal fire centre. Always check with local governments, First Nations and other authorities before starting a campfire.”

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As of time of publication, there are still bans for campfires and both Category 2 and 3 open burning within the Kamloops Fire Centre, which includes Vernon, Kelowna and the Okanagan.

The warning also comes as the City of Vernon’s Fire Hazard Rating remained at High, or Level 3. The rating has been maintained at that level since early July.

People who spot a new wildfire or someone in contravention of current fire restrictions were advised to contact the B.C. Wildfire Service by dialing *5555 on a cellphone, calling the toll-free number at 1-800-663-5555, or through the BCWS app.

As of Tuesday, Sept. 23, there were 120 active wildfires across B.C., including 10 that were considered Out of Control. None of the more severe fires were located within the Kamloops Fire Centre as of time of publication.