12 Jul 2021 | 07:16 AM UTC
Canada: Emergency crews continuing to respond to wildfires burning in British Columbia as of July 12 /update 4
Emergency crews responding to wildfires in British Columbia, Canada as of July 12. Transport disruptions likely to continue.
Event
Emergency crews are working to contain dozens of wildfires burning in British Columbia, July 12. Forecast models indicate above-normal temperatures and dry conditions will persist across the region through at least late July, which could hamper firefighting efforts. As of July 12, the following large wildfires continue to prompt evacuations and transport disruptions:
Sparks Lake Fire
The Sparks Lake Fire is currently affecting the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. The fire is approximately 40 km (25 miles) northwest of Kamloops. As of July 12, the fire is approximately 40,300 hectares (99,600 acres) in size. Around 128 personnel are battling the blaze. Additional wildfire growth is possible. Some evacuations and transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Lytton Creek Complex
The Lytton Creek Complex consists of the Lytton Creek Fire and the George Road Fire and is affecting Thompson-Nicola Regional District and Squamish-Lillooet Regional District. The fire is approximately 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Kamloops. As of July 12, the fire is approximately 9,800 hectares (24,200 acres) in size. Approximately 150 personnel are battling the blaze. Reports indicate two people have died and two other properties were damaged in the fire. Road closures and evacuation orders are in effect. For additional details, click here.
Mckay Creek Fire
The Mckay Creek Fire is currently affecting the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and Thompson-Nicola Regional District. The fire is approximately 120 km (75 miles) west of Kamloops. As of July 12, the fire is approximately 24,400 hectares (60,300 acres) in size. Around 163 fire service personnel are battling the blaze. Additional wildfire growth is possible. Some evacuations and transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Durand Lake Fire
The Durand Lake Fire is currently affecting the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. The fire is approximately 30 km (19 miles) west of Kamloops. As of July 12, the fire is approximately 270 hectares (670 acres) in size. Officials have classified the fire as 'out of control.' Around 12 fire service personnel are battling the blaze. Additional wildfire growth is likely. Some evacuations and transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Napier Lake
The Napier Lake Fire is currently affecting the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. The fire is approximately 30 km (19 miles) south of Kamloops. As of July 12, the fire is approximately 60 hectares (150 acres) in size. Officials have classified the fire as 'out of control.' Additional wildfire growth is likely. Some evacuations and transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Southwest of Deka Lake Fire
The Southwest of Deka Lake Fire is currently affecting the Cariboo Regional District. The fire is approximately 110 km (68 miles) northwest of Kamloops. As of July 12, the fire is approximately 650 hectares (1,600 acres) in size. Around 15 fire service personnel are battling the blaze. Additional wildfire growth is likely. Some evacuations and transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Thomas Creek Fire
The Thomas Creek Fire is currently affecting the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen. The fire is approximately 60 km (37 miles) south of Kelowna. As of July 12, the fire is approximately 500 hectares (1,200 acres) in size. Around eight fire service personnel are battling the blaze. Additional wildfire growth is likely. Some evacuations and transport disruptions are ongoing; for details, click here.
Emergency services will almost certainly remain widely deployed in the impacted region through July to manage current and future fires. Additional evacuation orders and road closures are likely. Fires could also lead to power supply disruptions.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
