The wildfire near Port Alberni received a much-needed break when steady rainfall eased fire activity, helping crews push forward in their containment efforts. The Mount Underwood wildfire, the only major fire of concern in the province, has burned out of control since early August. Now, firefighters are finding better conditions to fight the blaze after more than 36 millimetres of rain fell in the area.
Officials confirmed that the downpour helped reduce the intensity of the flames, creating a safer environment for fire crews working long hours in difficult terrain. While the fire is still considered out of control, experts say the weather shift has given them the upper hand they have been waiting for.
Julia Caranci, a fire information officer, explained that the weeks before the rainfall had been unusually dry, fueling the rapid growth of the wildfire. From mid-June until mid-August, the region went through almost six weeks with little to no rain. The result was extremely dry forest conditions that made it easier for the fire to spread across 36 square kilometres of land. Temperatures soared during that period, and crews had little natural support from the weather. Caranci pointed out that conditions are now different, with shorter days, longer nights, and better overnight recoveries, all signs of a shift into a fall-like pattern. These changes make it more difficult for flames to stay active through the night, giving crews valuable time to strengthen containment lines.
More than 150 firefighters are currently on the ground, supported by equipment and emergency teams spread across the fire zone. Most are focusing on the west and north flanks of the wildfire. Their plan is to build containment lines along both sides and gradually move toward each other to close gaps and cut off the fire’s path. This method, often used in large-scale wildfire management, requires precise coordination and constant monitoring of fire behavior. Rainfall has allowed crews to make more progress, but the work remains challenging due to the fire’s size and rugged terrain. Officials emphasize that while the fire is less aggressive, it is still far from being fully under control.
The recent rain has provided temporary relief, but forecasts show a drying trend will follow. Still, the upcoming conditions will not be as extreme as those that triggered the blaze earlier in August. Instead of long stretches of heat and dryness, the region will likely experience more balanced weather typical of the early fall season. For firefighters, this shift means a lower risk of flare-ups, though the fire will still demand close attention until it is fully contained. The hope is that future rainfall will continue to support firefighting efforts while the cooler nights slow the wildfire’s spread.
The Mount Underwood wildfire serves as a reminder of how quickly dry conditions can turn dangerous. The fire, which began on August 11, grew rapidly due to the lack of rain and persistent heat. Now, with weather patterns shifting, authorities remain cautiously optimistic but stress the need for continued vigilance. Communities in the area have been monitoring updates closely, though no major evacuations have been reported at this stage. Emergency teams continue to prioritize safety for residents while working to ensure the fire remains contained as much as possible.
As firefighters press forward, the recent rainfall has offered not only practical help but also a morale boost for those who have spent days and nights battling flames in difficult conditions. The combination of skilled crews, improved weather, and coordinated planning has brought the wildfire response into a stronger position, even as the work is far from complete.
