Urgent: Wildfire Near Port Alberni Grows to 2,000 Hectares

URGENT UPDATE: A rapidly spreading wildfire, the Mount Underwood blaze, has now engulfed over 2,000 hectares south of Port Alberni. In response to the escalating threat, the City of Port Alberni, the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, and the Tseshaht First Nation have declared local states of emergency.

Residents in the Cameron Heights neighborhood are on high alert, facing imminent evacuation orders. Authorities are urging those in the area to be prepared to leave immediately. Additionally, a broader evacuation order has been issued for a large, though sparsely populated, rural region. The China Creek Campground and marina were evacuated on Monday, as the situation continues to worsen.

Local resident Rick Semchuk described the chaotic scene he witnessed upon returning to Port Alberni. “By the time I got back, the marina crew was already driving around in their golf carts, telling everyone to get out,” he recounted. “We got out in about fifteen minutes.”

The fire has caused significant disruption, including the closure of the road between Port Alberni and Bamfield, leaving more than 500 BC Hydro customers in Bamfield and nearby First Nations communities without power.

Port Alberni Mayor Sharie Minions expressed the community’s distress, stating, “I personally can’t look out a window without seeing the plumes of smoke, and I think many people are in that same situation. And I know that comes with extreme discomfort.”

As the wildfire continues to threaten homes and livelihoods, authorities are closely monitoring conditions. The community is advised to stay updated on evacuation protocols and to heed all official directions.

This developing situation remains critical, with residents urged to prepare for rapid changes. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available on this urgent wildfire crisis.