Smoke from a large fire burning in Washington State has been highly visible in the Penticton Fire Zone and in much of southern B.C. recently. The smoke is expected to be seen in the area for the next few days. For more information about wildfires burning in the U.S. please visit: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/

Detecting new fires in this situation can be challenging. If open flame or a distinct column of smoke is visible, report it to *5555 or 1-800-663-5555 as soon as possible and provide as much detail as possible.

Smoke concentrations will vary widely as winds, fire behaviour and temperatures change.

To see the current smoke forecast for western Canada, visit: http://firesmoke.ca/forecasts/BSC00WC04/current/

For the latest information about air quality, check: www.bcairquality.ca

The Kamloops Fire Centre is currently experiencing elevated fire danger ratings, from “high” to “extreme” throughout the region. With hot and dry conditions forecast for the next several days, the Kamloops Fire Centre is urging the public to be vigilant in the backcountry. All human-caused fires are preventable, and can divert critical resources from naturally occurring wildfires.

The BC Wildfire Service reminds the public that campfires are prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre.

For the latest information on wildfire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the B.C. Wildfire Service website: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest B.C. wildfire news:

• On Twitter: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
• On Facebook: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo