12 Jul 2023 | 07:42 AM UTC
Canada: Disruptions ongoing due to multiple wildfires across British Columbia as of early July 12
Emergency crews working to contain multiple wildfires across British Columbia, Canada, as of early July 12. Evacuations ongoing.
Event
Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires burning across British Columbia as of early July 12. Authorities report 339 active fires burning across the province, of which 207 are out of control. Further details on the 12 wildfires of note can be found here. The northern part of the province is the worst affected area. Authorities have issued a provincial state of emergency in the Stikine Region.
Authorities in British Columbia have issued evacuation orders for more than 150 people across the province, including residents in the Burns Lake, Eliguk Lake, Pelican Lake, Townsend Creek, and Yekooche First Nation areas, while hundreds of others are under evacuation alerts. Many roads, including sections of several highways, near the wildfire complexes are closed across both provinces. Details on road closures across British Columbia can be found here.
Environment Canada has issued a heat warning across North Thompson; temperatures near 30 C (86 F) with overnight lows of near 14 C (57 F) are forecast through at least July 16. The hot and dry conditions could lead to further wildfire growth in the region. Special air quality statements are also in place across much of central, eastern, and northern British Columbia due to the impact of smoke from the wildfires.
Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
