31 Jul 2024 | 03:56 PM UTC
Canada: Emergency crews continue to respond to wildfires across southern British Columbia as of July 31 /update 2
Emergency crews responding to wildfires across southern British Columbia, Canada, as of July 31; evacuations ongoing.
Crews continue to respond to multiple wildfires burning across southern British Columbia as of July 31. Cooler and wetter conditions in recent days have aided firefighting efforts; however, around 350 wildfires remain active across the province as of July 30 and, despite some orders being rescinded, hundreds of people remain evacuated across the affected area. A return to warmer and drier conditions is expected over the next two weeks; further wildfire growth is possible in the coming days.
As of July 31, the following wildfires of note continue to cause evacuations in the region:
Shetland Creek Wildfire
The Teit Creek Wildfire merged into the Shetland Creek Wildfire July 17. The fire is around 8 km (5 miles) north of Spences Bridge and has burned approximately 24,064 hectares (59,463 acres). Evacuation orders have been issued in the vicinity of the fire by Cooks Ferry Indian Band, Oregon Jack Creek Band, District of Logan Lake, and Thompson-Nicola Regional District. Evacuation alerts are in place across parts of the surrounding areas.
Aylwin Creek and Komonko Creek wildfires
The Aylwin Creek and Komonko Creek wildfires are burning on either side of the highway south of Silverton and north of Slocan. The Aylwin Creek Wildfire has burned approximately 637 hectares (1,574 acres), while the Komonko Creek Wildfire has burned approximately 2,888 hectares (7,136 acres). The Regional District of Central Kootenay has issued evacuation warnings and alerts for areas around Slocan Lake.
Argenta Creek Wildfire
The Argenta Creek Wildfire broke out July 18 near the northern end of Kootenay Lake. As of July 31, the fire has grown to around 14,826 hectares (36,636 acres) in size. The Regional District of Central Kootenay has issued evacuation warnings and alerts around the northeastern shore of Kootenay Lake.
Dogtooth FSR Wildfire
The Dogtooth FSR Wildfire broke out July 23 south of Golden off Highway 95. As of July 31, the fire has grown to around 5,391 hectares (13,3121 acres in size. Columbia Shuswap Regional District has issued evacuation orders and alerts in the vicinity of the fire.
The latest details on the status of fires and related evacuation orders can be found here.
The wildfires may cause additional localized transport disruptions in the region. The status of nearby roads will likely change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuated communities due to fire activity and the requirements of response operations. 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.
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours may 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.
