First Nation keeps fire ban

The Lower Similkameen Indian Band will continue to prohibit all fires other than a campfire into next week, citing drier conditions than other regions.

In a press release on Thursday, the LSIB said it would not be lifting its fire ban despite Kamloops Fire Centre lifting its Category 3 restriction on Friday.

"The continued drought in the Similkameen & surrounding areas remains consistent as per the Fine Fuels Moisture Code (FFMC), the Duff Moisture Code (DMC), the Drought Code (DC), & the Build Up Index (BUI). Little moisture is evident in the long-range forecasts," reads the press release.

"Until these numbers start to recover, and we have consistent, closer-to-seasonal moisture in the lands, LSIB bans will remain in effect. This includes the sm?lqmíx Protected Area, the Ashnola."

On Thursday, the BC Wildfire Service announced Category 3 open burning will be permitted as of noon on Friday.

Category 3 burning refers to piles of material exceeding two metres in height and three metres in width or stubble/grass larger than 0.2 hectares.

The band added that Ashnola and Little Chopaka have high drought ratings compared to the rest of the Penticton Fire Zone.

"With the prevalent winds in the valleys, this still makes anything bigger than a campfire a serious danger, and an incident that can be prevented," continues the press release.