The Northwest Fire Centre says a new fire burning 25 kilometres northwest of Fraser Lake is sending up smoke visible along the Highway 16 corridor.
The Shovel Lake fire is estimated at 291 hectares and is described as a low-to-moderately vigorous surface fire burning in timber and surrounding cut blocks.
Crews are fighting the fire from two access points with 53 personnel, nine pieces of heavy equipment, two air tankers, and five helicopters.
A separate group of air tankers is positioned in Smithers.
Officials say there are a number of homes and properties are located within a 10 kilometre radius of the fire, but are not currently threatened.
The BC Wildfire Service is bracing for some new fire starts this weekend as a result of the high fire danger rating, combined with heat and lightning in the forecast.