Wesley Ridge Wildfire Grows to 5+ Square Kilometres on Vancouver Island

UPDATE: The Wesley Ridge wildfire on Vancouver Island has rapidly expanded to over 5 square kilometres, prompting multiple fire departments to mobilize in an urgent response to protect properties near Cameron Lake.

The B.C. Wildfire Service has confirmed that the fire is now classified as a wildfire of note, with firefighting efforts intensifying as of early October 2025. Fire information officer Madison Dahl reported minimal growth overnight, thanks to helicopters equipped with night vision technology conducting water drops on key hotspots.

Crews are working tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent it from impacting traffic on Highway 4, ensuring safe passage for travelers. Dahl highlighted the challenges, stating, “The fire’s southern edge is burning in very tough terrain with ample fuel for the wildfire.”

While some rain is anticipated in the coming days, dry conditions persist across the B.C. coast and Vancouver Island, making it critical for firefighting teams to act swiftly. Dahl emphasized that substantial precipitation would be necessary to significantly alter the fire’s behavior.

In a concerning development, Christina Crabtree, the director of Nanaimo’s emergency operations centre, revealed that 387 residences are currently under evacuation orders, with an additional 235 residences on alert. Over 400 evacuees have received emergency support as the situation escalates.

As the wildfire continues to threaten homes and infrastructure, officials urge residents to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders. The focus now shifts to maintaining safety along Highway 4 and protecting the communities surrounding Cameron Lake.

Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops. The urgency of the response and the potential for further growth make it essential for the public to remain informed and prepared.