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17h ago

Rapidly Growing Wesley Ridge Wildfire Forces Hundreds to Evacuate on Vancouver Island

Crews are struggling to contain rapidly expanding flames in steep terrain under heavy smoke, with evacuees relying on a reception centre through the holiday weekend.

Smokes rises from the Wesley Ridge wildfire.
The Wesley Ridge wildfire on the north shore of Cameron Lake on Vancouver Island prompted evacuation orders to be expanded late Friday night northwest of Nanaimo.

Overview

  • The BC Wildfire Service now estimates the Wesley Ridge blaze at 245 hectares after smoke-clearance revealed nearly double the earlier size.
  • Regional District of Nanaimo officials have issued evacuation orders for 191 properties and alerts for 283 more around Little Qualicum River Village.
  • An emergency reception centre in Qualicum Beach remains open with housing and shower facilities as evacuees face limited hotel availability over the long weekend.
  • Firefighters are backed by five helicopters, air tankers and structural protection crews working in difficult, rocky terrain.
  • Highway 4 remains open to traffic but drivers are urged to proceed with caution around active firefighting operations and reduced visibility.