Loon Lake area evacuation order extends to nearly 1,500 properties due to Pear Lake fire

The evacuation order for the Loon Lake area in British Columbia has been significantly expanded, now encompassing almost 1,500 properties as the Pear Lake wildfire continues to rage. The Thompson-Nicola Regional District issued the updated order Friday morning, adding approximately 375 properties to the existing 1,119.

This expansion includes Loon Lake itself and properties along Highway 97, stretching from Loon Lake Road past Scottie Creek Road. Officials stress that the wildfire presents a direct threat to life and safety, mandating immediate evacuation for all impacted residents. The regional district emphasized that people must leave their homes now if ordered to do so.

The Pear Lake wildfire has grown substantially, now estimated to cover 73,217.11 hectares. This massive blaze has led to eight separate evacuation orders and three evacuation alerts across the region. The situation remains dynamic, with authorities closely monitoring the fire's progression and issuing necessary safety directives.