Urgent Evacuation Alerts Issued as Wildfire Threatens Cariboo Region

URGENT UPDATE: Two evacuation alerts have just been issued in the Cariboo region as a massive wildfire, known as Fire C51842, continues to expand. The fire, now covering approximately 2,385.05 hectares north of Elkin Creek, poses a severe threat to life and health in the area, prompting authorities to act swiftly.

At 9 p.m. on September 13, 2023, the Xeni Gwet’in First Nation Government, the Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG), and the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) issued an evacuation alert affecting 18 CRD parcels of land and spanning an area of 34,745 hectares. Just 15 minutes later, a second alert was announced for the community of Xeni Gwet’in, as the fire threatens to compromise access to Taseko Lake Road.

Currently, the fire is not an immediate threat to the community itself but could block crucial road access. Residents in affected areas are urged to prepare for a potential evacuation at short notice. The CRD recommends having a plan in place for all family members, especially those who may need assistance, including children and elderly individuals.

To ensure a swift evacuation if needed, residents should prepare grab-and-go bags with essential items. It is also advisable to collect comfort items like blankets and stuffed animals, as well as leashes or kennels for pets.

As of the morning of September 14, the fire is classified as out of control, with a total of 22 active wildfires in the Cariboo Fire Centre, 11 of which are deemed out of control. The suspected cause of Fire C51842 is lightning, exacerbated by an unusually dry summer and hot weather conditions.

Fire behaviour analyst Eric Kopetski commented, “We are dealing with a lot of fire over the landscape… it is unusual to have as many fires growing as big as they are.” He noted that the legacy of a mountain pine beetle epidemic, which devastated the region 15 to 20 years ago, has left behind dead trees that contribute to the current fire challenges.

Aerial operations have been actively conducted to manage the fire, utilizing nighttime conditions to reduce spotting risks. Kopetski stated, “We’ve had lots of success doing ignition at night when the humidity is higher.” While a cold front is expected to bring gusty winds and scattered showers, the situation remains critical.

Currently, there are 10 other active evacuation alerts or orders throughout the Cariboo Regional District, bringing the total to 12. Residents are advised to stay informed and be ready to evacuate if conditions worsen.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing situation unfolds.