A fast-growing wildfire near Lytton, B.C. has prompted evacuation alerts for five Fraser Canyon properties as crews battle 150-hectare blaze.
Wildfire Discovered Near Lytton
A fast-moving wildfire discovered late Monday afternoon approximately 10 kilometres south of Lytton, B.C., has prompted urgent action from emergency crews and local authorities. Identified as the Cantilever Bar wildfire, the blaze ignited on the west side of the Fraser River and was visible from the Trans-Canada Highway.
Evacuation Alert Issued
By 9:30 p.m. PT on July 28, the Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) issued an evacuation alert affecting five properties along Spencer Road South. Residents have been advised to remain on standby and be ready to leave at a moment’s notice due to the proximity and rapid spread of the fire.
Firefighting Response Underway
The B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) quickly deployed three helicopters and three ground attack crews to combat the fire, which had expanded to 150 hectares by 10 p.m. PT. The fire’s suspected cause is human activity, although investigations are ongoing.
Extreme Heat Complicates Conditions
The wildfire erupted on the same day a heat warning was issued by Environment Canada for the Fraser Canyon region, including Lytton. Forecasts predict daytime temperatures to soar between 35°C and 37°C from Tuesday through Thursday, creating dangerously dry and volatile fire conditions.
Heightened Wildfire Risk Across B.C.
According to a provincial situation report by BCWS, above-normal temperatures are expected to persist across B.C. throughout the week. The southern third of the province is anticipated to be the hottest, and meteorologists warn of a high probability of dry lightning, a key wildfire trigger. Despite this, winds are forecast to remain light, offering some reprieve for firefighting efforts.
Precautions and Preparedness
Residents in affected zones are urged to prepare emergency kits, plan evacuation routes, and remain attentive to updates from local authorities and BCWS. The evolving wildfire situation serves as a stark reminder of the increasing impact of climate-driven weather extremes on communities in British Columbia.
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