The Sailor Bar wildfire north of Hope, B.C., forces evacuation alerts and air quality warnings across the Fraser Valley as crews battle steep terrain.
Wildfire Near Hope Triggers Evacuation Alerts, Smoke Risk
Evacuation Alerts Issued
A fast-spreading wildfire near Hope, B.C., has prompted evacuation alerts for about 240 residents across 85 properties, according to the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD). The Sailor Bar wildfire, discovered late Saturday north of Yale, has also led the Spuzzum First Nation to issue alerts covering seven reserves. Officials stress that residents should be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice.
Location and Scale of the Fire
The blaze is burning on the east side of the Fraser River, opposite Highway 1 between Spuzzum and Yale. By Sunday afternoon, the fire had grown to 120 hectares and was classified as “out of control” by the B.C. Wildfire Service. Fire crews describe the conditions as challenging due to steep, inoperable terrain.
Why Authorities Are Concerned
Officials warn that rising temperatures, dry conditions, and low humidity are creating a high risk of aggressive fire growth. Samantha Piper, communications manager for the FVRD, emphasized that wildfire behaviour can shift quickly. “Being prepared is key,” she said, urging residents to pack emergency kits and sign up for the Alertable notification system.
How Crews Are Responding
Six helicopters have been deployed to bucket water onto the fire, while ground crews monitor its spread. Fire information officer Kimberly Kelly said flames are currently burning at Rank 2—visible but spreading slowly. Still, the difficult terrain and forecasted heat are making firefighting efforts more complex.
Suspected Cause of the Wildfire
The Sailor Bar fire is suspected to be human caused, a category that includes any fire not started by lightning. Kelly noted that most of this season’s fires in the Coastal Fire Centre fall into this category, calling them “completely preventable.” She urged the public to report any signs of smoke through the B.C. Wildfire Service app or by dialling *5555.
Air Quality and Public Safety
Smoke from the wildfire has led to elevated levels of fine particulate matter across the eastern Fraser Valley, triggering an air quality warning from Metro Vancouver. Health officials recommend postponing or limiting outdoor activities, particularly for vulnerable groups. DriveBC also cautioned motorists not to stop along Highway 1 to view the blaze.
Province-Wide Outlook
As of Sunday afternoon, 70 active wildfires were burning across British Columbia. With more hot, dry weather on the way, authorities are reminding residents to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories.
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