The Fraser Canyon blaze in British Columbia continues to rage on, forcing authorities to issue a new evacuation alert on Wednesday. The Kookipi Creek wildfire, which started in August 2023, has resulted in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District Emergency Operations Centre placing one property and other properties within a specified boundary area on evacuation alert. Residents at 10750 Texas Creek Rd. are being asked to prepare to evacuate, along with any properties around Texas Creek Road.
According to Minister of Forests Bruce Ralston, the rain observed in some parts of B.C. did not reach the fires in the Fraser Canyon, and they remain still very active in the northern region. Efforts are underway to protect vital infrastructure, including transmission lines, railways, and Highway 1, while also working to limit the fire’s growth in the south and eastern parts.
Bowinn Ma, B.C.’s Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, acknowledged the stress caused by the active fire area in Lytton, particularly for the Lytton First Nation community which has already endured significant challenges. Ma emphasized the importance of remaining adaptable in case circumstances change.
In relation to the increased fire activity in the Fraser Canyon, the Stein Mountain wildfire located northwest of Lytton has prompted evacuations. The fire, estimated to be 1,811 hectares in size, experienced heightened behavior on its northern flank due to southerly winds, resulting in the fire spreading four kilometers up the Fraser Canyon. Structure protection crews were actively working to safeguard buildings during this time.
The evacuation order has been expanded for several areas, including Lytton IR 4A, Lytton IR 4B, Lytton IR AC, and other locations. Evacuees are directed to travel on Westside North Spencer Road and gather at the Lillooet Friendship Centre. For support, Bobbi McKay of the Lytton First Nation can be contacted.
Meanwhile, the Kookipi Creek wildfire, situated just north of the Stein Mountain wildfire, has reached an estimated size of 13,674 hectares. This has led to evacuation orders being issued for multiple regions and bands, including Siska Indian Band, Thompson-Nicola Regional District, Lytton First Nation, Kanaka Bar Indian Band, Fraser Valley Regional District, Boothroyd Indian Band, and Skuppah Indian Band. Additionally, Highway 1 between Boothroyd and Lytton is closed due to the Kookipi Creek wildfire.
Residents who have been evacuated are urged to take their emergency kits, essential medications, and identification for their entire family. It is important to stay updated by listening to the radio and following instructions from authorities. If advised, residents should shut off utilities such as water, gas, and electricity, as well as secure their homes by closing windows and locking doors. Evacuees are advised not to take shortcuts and should adhere to designated evacuation routes. They are also encouraged to register with the local Emergency Support Services (ESS).
The ongoing wildfires in the Fraser Canyon serve as a reminder of the need for communities to be prepared and agile in the face of evolving circumstances. Efforts by firefighting crews continue to mitigate the impact of the fires, protect critical infrastructure, and ensure the safety of affected residents.
