Hazy days continue across Vancouver Island with a dozen active wildfires in the north
Published 7:44 am Monday, August 17, 2026
The haze of fire smoke is anticipated to continue through Tuesday midday, as residents awoke to a pink hue on the horizon Monday (Aug. 17).
Smoke from fires burning in B.C. and south of the border continues to drift over the region, getting heavier through Tuesday morning, according to the BluSky Canada smoke forecast.
The program at firesmoke.ca shows interactive forecasts of hourly and daily averages of fine inhalable particulate matter at ground level from wildfires.
As of Monday morning, 127 wildfires were active across the province according to the BC Wildfire Service. Of those, a dozen are on the North Island, with three small fires – all smaller than a hundredth of a hectare – remaining “out of control”. All but one are attributed to lightning. The southernmost fire, listed as being held at a half-hectare east of Bowser, was discovered on Aug. 15 and is likely human caused.
The national air quality index indicates the higher end of “low risk” across Vancouver Island.
Sunny skies are anticipated Island-wide, with a high of 23 C predicted for Greater Victoria and up to 26 C for areas such as Campbell River, according to Environment Canada.
BC Wildfire Service anticipates hotter temperatures and drier conditions in much of the province with the exception of the far northwest. Winds are expected to remain light in the southern half of the province.
As wildfire danger remains elevated in many areas, with recently implemented off-road vehicle prohibitions across the Kamloops, Southeast and Cariboo fire centres, as well as parts of the Coastal Fire Centre, which includes Vancouver Island.
Anyone who sees a wildfire can report by calling 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cellphone or through the BC Wildfire Service Mobile App and use the “Report a Fire” function, attaching a photo with your report.
About the Author: Christine van Reeuwyk
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