The BC Wildfire Service has said extreme heat and volatile conditions have heightened the wildfire risk across northern B.C.
Due to the imminent threat posed by the ongoing heat wave and forecasted weather patterns, additional fire prohibitions are being implemented province-wide.
Effective at 12 p.m. on Friday, July 12,  a Category 1 campfire prohibition will be enforced alongside existing Category 2 and Category 3 open fire bans. This decision comes amidst escalating concerns over wildfire activity.
Over the weekend, temperatures broke nearly 22 daily heat records in the province.These well-above seasonal temperatures paired with compounded years of drought have elevated the wildfire risk across the province, BCWS said.

The Northwest Fire Centre anticipates a weather disturbance on Wednesday. This disturbance is expected to bring strong winds, lightning, and scattered rainfall across most parts of the centre.

In the Nadina Zone specifically, wind gusts of up to 45 km/hr are forecasted, further complicating fire management efforts.
鈥淕iven elevated Fire Weather Indices new wildfire starts are anticipated, particularly in northern regions,鈥� BCWS said.
With increased likelihood of fire starts, BCWS is calling on the public to exercise extreme caution, particularly when engaging in recreational activities. Campfires are strongly discouraged in affected areas.
鈥淭he BC Wildfire Service is prepared to respond to new wildfires and increased wildfire activity. Wildfire personnel are constantly monitoring and assessing conditions, and resources are stationed and deployed in alignment with heightened risk.鈥�
Residents and visitors are requested to  familiarize themselves with trusted sources of wildfire information and pay attention to local updates and alerts. 
Individuals in the vicinity of existing wildfires are encouraged to stay alert and aware of the current wildfire situation as wildfires are dynamic and conditions may change rapidly.
The public have been asked to adhere to all fire bans and restrictions in their area, including those enforced by  regional district or local authority. To reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, additional fire use restrictions will be issued in the coming days.

Early detection and public reporting is crucial when responding to new wildfire starts. 
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, please call 1-800-663-5555 (toll-free), *5555 on a cellphone or submit a report directly through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.