Small wildfire burning at Sunset Beach in West Vancouver amid lightning strike wave

A small wildfire is burning near Sunset Beach in West Vancouver following the weekend's storm activity that brought lightning across the Coastal Fire Centre.

BC Wildfire Service posted details of the fire on their website Sunday just before noon, noting that it is currently 0.009 hectares in size and listed as "out of control," meaning the fire is spreading or anticipated to spread beyond its current perimeter. BC Wildfire Service crews are on scene responding to the blaze.

Residents and visitors in the area may see visible smoke from the Sea to Sky Highway, Sunset Beach and surrounding areas. The fire's cause is under investigation.

The West Vancouver fire follows a broader wave of lightning activity across the region. Between Friday afternoon and Saturday, a storm passed through many parts of the Coastal Fire Centre, bringing an increased chance of lightning-caused wildfires. BC Wildfire Service is assessing affected areas for new starts and monitoring existing incidents.

As of Sunday, there were 176 active wildfires burning across British Columbia, with 60 of them started in the last 24 hours. The wildfire service encourages anyone spotting signs of wildfire — including smoke — to report it immediately by calling 1-800-663-5555 or through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.