Cantilever Bar Fire Near Lytton Expands to 1,426 Hectares

URGENT UPDATE: The Cantilever Bar wildfire near Lytton has surged to 1,426 hectares as of noon on August 3, 2023, according to the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS). This rapid expansion is primarily attributed to enhanced mapping techniques, rather than an actual increase in fire activity over the weekend.

The fire, located approximately 10 kilometres southwest of Lytton on the west side of the Fraser River, was first detected on July 28 and is believed to be human-caused. In response to the growing situation, Lytton First Nation has issued an evacuation order affecting two properties within the fire’s vicinity. Alerts have also been communicated by the Skuppah First Nation, Siska First Nation, and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.

Travelers along Highways 1 (Trans-Canada) and 12 are seeing significant smoke from the fire, though both highways remain open. Drivers are being urged to exercise caution, reduce their speed, and remain aware of their surroundings as conditions change.

Currently displaying Rank 2 fire behavior, with pockets of Rank 3, the fire is characterized as a low-vigour surface fire, though the potential for increased activity looms with rising daytime temperatures and solar radiation. Recent cooling trends have brought temperatures down from last week’s alarming highs of 39°C, with relative humidity now at 27%.

A robust response team has been mobilized to combat the blaze, consisting of 77 wildland firefighters and 14 structure protection personnel, supported by seven helicopters and three heavy equipment units. Fire crews are employing both direct and indirect tactics, including small-scale hand ignitions and suppression activities aimed at leveraging roads and natural features to contain the spread.

The primary focus remains on limiting fire growth to protect nearby structures. Aerial resources are actively engaged in delivering water and facilitating gear transport, alongside reconnaissance missions to assess the situation.

As developments unfold, authorities are closely monitoring fire conditions and will continue to provide updates to the public. Those in affected areas should remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders and alerts.

Stay tuned for more urgent updates as the situation evolves.