B.C. wildfires spread as hot, dry weather fuels flames, forcing evacuations and alerts across the province, from Clinton to Kimberley.
Wildfire danger rises across British Columbia
British Columbia’s wildfire battle is growing tougher as hot, dry weather continues to grip the province. Meanwhile, emergency crews are working around the clock as dozens of fires burn across B.C.
The BC Wildfire Service says the Fiftynine Creek wildfire, located northwest of Clinton, has grown beyond 102 square kilometres. In addition, the out-of-control blaze has led to evacuation orders and alerts in nearby communities.
Evacuation orders expand near Clinton
Earlier this week, the Thompson-Nicola Regional District expanded an evacuation order south of Clinton because of the fast-moving Pear Lake fire.
At the same time, local officials warned residents to stay ready and follow safety instructions. Kevin Skrepnek, the district’s manager of community and emergency services, said several properties have suffered damage. The impacts range from melted siding to homes being completely destroyed.
Furthermore, officials continue to monitor the situation closely as firefighters work to protect communities and slow the spread of flames.
Fraser Canyon residents urged to leave
Meanwhile, RCMP officials in the Fraser River Regional District are asking people near Boston Bar to follow all evacuation orders and alerts.
Just before midnight, district officials upgraded an evacuation alert to an order covering the Hells Gate to Alexandra Lodge area, south of the community. As a result, residents who remained in the area were told to leave immediately because flames now surround parts of the Fraser Canyon.
Kimberley placed under evacuation alert
Elsewhere, the city of Kimberley in southeastern B.C. is also facing growing wildfire concerns. The entire city remains under an evacuation alert because of the nearby Bootleg Complex fires.
However, firefighters have seen some positive signs. Hugh Murdoch, incident commander for the Bootleg Complex, said crews are tracking seven fires in the area. So far, fire behaviour has stayed mostly under control.
Still, weather conditions remain a major concern. Murdoch said the forecast offers little relief, with no rain expected soon and temperatures staying above seasonal averages.
Fire crews prepare as conditions remain difficult
Overall, 89 wildfires are currently burning across British Columbia. Therefore, crews are continuing suppression efforts while communities stay alert.
For now, officials say the combination of dry conditions, high temperatures and strong fire activity means residents should remain prepared. In the coming days, firefighters will keep working across the province as B.C. faces another challenging wildfire season.
