Out-of-control wildfire forces evacuation in B.C.’s Fraser Valley

Residents of North Bend, British Columbia, are under an evacuation order due to a rapidly growing wildfire in the Fraser Valley. The blaze, situated just outside the community of Boston Bar, has expanded to 100 hectares, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service. Officials suspect human activity sparked the fire, which was first discovered on Thursday.

The Fraser Valley Regional District declared a state of emergency on Saturday. By Sunday morning, approximately 60 residences along Chaumox Road were instructed to evacuate immediately. An evacuation alert has also been issued for the entire community of Boston Bar, advising residents to prepare to leave at a moment's notice with essential items and pets.

Firefighting efforts are being supported by multiple aviation resources, initial attack crews, and heavy equipment. However, hot and dry weather conditions, with temperatures expected to reach 30 C until Tuesday and no rain in sight, are likely to impede progress. Smoke from the fire is visible as far east as the Okanagan region.

This fire is one of five currently burning out of control across the province. Meanwhile, the Northwest Territories are battling 149 active wildfires, covering a vast area of over 223,000 hectares.