WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A new wildfire west of Whatcom County has sent some smoke into our area.

The Northwest Clean Air Agency tells My Bellingham Now that a wildfire on the southern side of Vancouver Island was discovered on Sunday, Sept. 21.

BC’s Wildfire Service reports the Mount Jack fire has burned over 500 acres in steep, remote terrain.

Parts of Lynden and Maple Falls saw air quality levels that were unhealthy for sensitive groups throughout the day Wednesday, Sept. 23.

Blaine, Ferndale, Glacier and parts of the San Juans had air quality levels within the moderate range.

Forecasted wet weather Thursday and Friday is expected to both help tamp down the flames and improve air quality.