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3d ago

Evacuations Ordered as Wildfires Escalate Across British Columbia

Strong winds and dry conditions fuel nearly two dozen human-caused fires, disrupting communities and infrastructure in northeastern B.C.

A wildfire burning in the Fish Creek Community Forest near Fort St. John.
An extreme fire warning sign is shown along Highway 97 toward Fort Nelson outside the Charlie Lake Fire Hall near Fort St. John, B.C., on Monday, May 13, 2024. The B.C. Forest Ministry warns of elevated wildfire risk as winds arrive with warm, dry conditions. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jesse Boily
The B.C. Wildfire Service says two wildfires near Tumbler Ridge have merged and are pushing toward Highway 52 North, while three others have been contained as of May 1, 4 p.m. PT.
File photo of a B.C. Wildfire Service firefighter.

Overview

  • The BC Wildfire Service is managing nearly two dozen active wildfires, with all suspected to be human-caused, including a 35-hectare blaze southwest of Dawson Creek.
  • Tactical evacuations are underway in Fort St. John due to a fire in the Fish Creek Community Forest, with evacuees directed to the Pomeroy Sport Centre.
  • A cluster of fires near Dawson Creek has damaged fibre optic cables, cutting off cellphone, internet, and radio services in Tumbler Ridge, impacting RCMP operations.
  • Warm, dry weather combined with strong winds has significantly elevated wildfire danger across southern British Columbia, with certain areas rated as 'high.'
  • Authorities are urging the public to suspend open burning, with formal prohibitions expected to be implemented in the coming weeks.