Smoke in B.C. Interior causing poor air quality but helping fire fight

Smoke in the B.C. Interior has led to poor air quality, but has also aided firefighters in their efforts. The smoke originated from numerous blazes that have been smothering the province for several days. Cliff Chapman, from the B.C. Wildfire Service, attributes the benefit of the smoke to its ability to suppress flames by obstructing their contact with fresh oxygen and preventing the spread of the fires.

However, he warns that a change in weather leading to the dissipation of smoke could increase the risk of fires spreading. As of now, there are approximately 100 fires burning across British Columbia, with about half of them out of control. Despite the winds being relatively mild, Chapman notes that many wildfires have shown signs of growth, indicating the severity of the dry conditions and the ongoing drought in southern B.C.