Canada: Wildfires prompt evacuations in British Columbia August 21

Event

Several wildfires in British Columbia (BC) have prompted calls for evacuations from local authorities as of Friday, August 21. The Christie Mountain fire is around 2000 hectares (4942 acres), and the BC Wildfire Services is sending additional structural protection units into the area on Friday to prevent essential infrastructure from being damaged. This measure comes as strong winds are forecast on Friday in BC. The King Solomon Mountain fire is largely under control, however, the Doctor Creek Fire near Canal Flats is reportedly larger than first measured, with new information putting the fire at 3000 hectares (7413 acres). Dozens of properties near Pemberton have been ordered to evacuate as fire and rain threaten several areas. People who live down the In-SHUCK-ch forest service road (FSR) at Lillooet Lake Estates, Heather Jean Properties, and those below McCullock Creek are being asked to leave via the FSR and head north to the Pemberton Valley Lodge where they will be contacted by the Red Cross.

Further spread of the fire is possible in the near term. An emergency response presence and localized transportation disruptions, namely road closures, should be anticipated in the affected areas.

Advice

Those in the vicinity of the fires are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.