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Kelly Lake Wildfire Quadruples to 46 km², Threatening Gas Plant and Highway 52

Crews are bracing for strong winds, dry lightning or weekend thunderstorms that could worsen the blaze

Overview

  • The Kiskatinaw River fire, believed to be human-caused and discovered Wednesday, expanded from 11 km² to about 46 km² by Friday.
  • Peace River Regional District issued evacuation orders for roughly 75 residents of Kelly Lake and nearby areas, directing them to Dawson Creek’s emergency reception centre.
  • Smoke and flames near the Pembina Steeprock gas processing facility forced the closure of Highway 52E in both directions.
  • BC Wildfire Service has deployed ground crews, helicopters, airtankers and heavy equipment to tackle aggressive fire behaviour.
  • Forecasts of high winds, dry lightning and weekend thunderstorms have driven strategic positioning of resources to prepare for intensifying conditions.