Wildfire in Fraser Canyon Expands to 120 Hectares, Evacuations Ordered

UPDATE: Just announced at 5:45 p.m., the Sailor Bar wildfire in the Fraser Canyon has surged to a staggering 120 hectares, prompting urgent evacuation alerts for multiple properties. The blaze, which has more than doubled in size in the past 24 hours, continues to burn uncontrollably in steep and challenging terrain, raising significant safety concerns for residents in the area.

The Fraser Valley Regional District has issued evacuation alerts from Yale north to Spuzzum Creek Road, affecting both sides of the Fraser River. Residents in Yale, Electoral Area B, and those along Spuzzum Creek Road are facing immediate risk, along with private properties and Crown lands in the vicinity. In a parallel move, the Spuzzum First Nation has also alerted some of its residents to prepare for possible evacuation.

The BC Wildfire Service confirmed that four helicopters are actively battling the flames, alongside ground crews. The fire is classified as a Rank 2 intensity, characterized by visible flames and a slow rate of spread. Authorities emphasize that responder safety is the top priority, as the location presents considerable challenges for firefighting efforts.

Earlier updates from 11:30 a.m. indicated that train tracks through the Fraser Canyon have been temporarily closed due to the wildfire’s proximity. While the fire remains highly visible from Highway 1, current reports confirm that no infrastructure beyond the rail tracks is threatened at this time.

The fire was first detected on August 5, 2023, and initial estimates placed its size at approximately 50 hectares. Fire crews worked overnight, utilizing night-vision helicopters to combat the rapidly spreading flames. The BC Wildfire Service had deployed multiple aviation and ground resources to tackle the situation.

As temperatures soar, with highs expected to reach 38 C today and potentially hitting 40 C by Wednesday, conditions remain critical. Rain is forecasted for Monday and Tuesday, providing some hope for containment.

Residents are urged to stay informed and heed evacuation alerts as the situation evolves. The community’s safety is paramount as crews continue their fight against the flames in this challenging environment.

Stay tuned for further updates as officials monitor the situation closely.