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yesterday

Wesley Ridge Fire Reaches 389 Hectares, Evacuation Orders Expanded

Unpredictable winds have hindered firefighting efforts in steep, rocky terrain.

Fire crews worked through Saturday night to battle the growing wildfire on Vancouver Island that has led to the evacuation of nearly 400 properties.
The Cantilever Bar wildfire burning south of Lytton, B.C. is seen in this handout image on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout - BC Wildfire Service (Mandatory Credit)
Smokes rises from the Wesley Ridge wildfire.
The Wesley Ridge wildfire is 0.9 square kilometres in size and located on the opposite side of Cameron Lake from Highway 4 is shown in this B.C. Wildfire Service handout photo.

Overview

  • The Wesley Ridge wildfire on Vancouver Island has expanded to 389 hectares since it was first detected on July 31, B.C. Wildfire Service reports.
  • Regional District of Nanaimo officials have ordered the evacuation of 191 homes, issued alerts for 283 more and closed Little Qualicum Falls Park.
  • More than 60 firefighters supported by five helicopters, airtankers, heavy equipment and local fire departments are engaged in containment efforts.
  • Thousands of lightning strikes over the past two days have fueled the blaze and ignited dozens of other wildfires, and the Wesley Ridge fire has destroyed a historic railway trestle.
  • Smoke from the fire has led to poor air quality across British Columbia, prompting special air quality statements in multiple regions.