B.C. Forest Minister Pat Bell says hot, dry weather and lightning are to blame for many of the new fires sparked in B.C. this week, but there are still too many being caused by humans.

Sixty new forest fires have started in the province in the last four days. On Thursday alone, 32 new wildfires were reported, of which 13 were started by people.

"This is a concern as even one human-caused fire is too many," Bell said in a release. "We are entering a critical period for wildfire activity in B.C. and fire crews must be available to manage naturally occurring fires caused by lightning."

Several of the fires are still being investigated, but at least five of the human-caused fires were started by people burning debris, and at least one was caused by a campfire.

Most of the fires were contained to less than one hectare, Bell said, but one fire near Dease Lake grew to 350 hectares.

More than 60 per cent of B.C. is at the high or extreme fire-danger rating now, up from 19 per cent last Friday. Crews have battled 402 fires in the province since April 1.

Fire restrictions

As of noon Sunday, campfires were permitted across B.C. and there were no forest use restrictions. A ban imposed in May on burning waste, slash or other material in mid-sized backyard fires remains in effect.

For the latest on fire bans, restrictions, and wildfires in B.C. visit the Wildfire Management Branch website.