UPDATE: Over 100 new wildfires spark across B.C.

Lightning from thunderstorms are suspected to be behind more than 100 new wildfires sparked across B.C.

Chief fire information officer Kevin Skrepnek says 113 fires have recorded, most of them due to lightning, and more fires are expected because a severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect across most of the B.C. Interior today, June 21.

Skrepnek says the risk could continue for several days.

He says erratic winds have the potential to fan existing fires or hamper aircraft trying to get crews or equipment to the flames, but there is also the possibility of heavy rain.

Skrepnek says firefighters have benefited from cooler, damp conditions earlier this month.

The new fires include a 20-hectare wildfire roughly 28 kilometres southwest of Kamloops, and west of Tunkwa Lake. The fire is considered out of control at the wildfire service's last update.

The fire is not currently considered an interface fire, which means buildings aren't being impacted. Yesterday, 21 firefighters worked on the fire along with air tanker and helicopter support. Firefighting crews remained on scene overnight to continue their efforts.

For the latest information on wildfire activity, go here or follow @BCGovFireInfo on Twitter.

For driving routes being impacted by wildfires, go here or follow @DriveBC on Twitter.

For the latest on evacuation orders in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District, go here or follow @TNRD on Twitter.

For up-to-date numbers on air quality in your area, go here.

— With files from The Canadian Press

— This story was updated at 11:47 a.m. Thursday, June 21, 2018 to include new information from B.C. Wildfire.

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