The wildfire near Cameron Lake on Vancouver Island has grown to 538 hectares. This update came at 3 p.m. on August 6. The fire, known as the Wesley Ridge wildfire, remains active and dangerous.
Although light rain fell over the area, it was not enough to stop the fire’s spread. The ground is still dry, with lots of flammable material. Cliff Chapman, the wildfire operations director, explained that the rainfall only helped in a very small way.
“It gives us a short window to act directly on the fire,” said Chapman. “We’re working close to the fire’s edge to stop it from spreading further.”
The fire burns in rough terrain, which makes it harder to fight. Over 185 firefighters are working at the site. Helicopters, air tankers, and heavy machinery are also being used. So far, no homes have been damaged. There have also been no serious injuries to firefighters.
However, officials warn that home damage is still a risk. In recent years, many fires in the province have reached nearby homes. Crews are watching the area closely.
A major concern now is public safety. Some people have ignored fire zone rules and entered restricted areas. On August 5, two tickets were given to people who entered the Wesley Ridge fire zone. Officials say this puts both the public and emergency teams at risk.
Madison Dahl, a wildfire information officer, said that entering active fire areas can interrupt firefighting efforts. “It is especially dangerous when aircraft are operating,” she said. “We need people to stay out of these areas and follow signs.”
Across the province, officials have also issued 26 fines for illegal campfires. Each ticket was $1,150, for a total of $29,900. These campfires increase the risk of more wildfires. Forests Minister Ravi Parmar said such actions endanger lives and property.
“To those breaking the rules, know that you will be found,” he said. “We must all do better.”
Currently, about 400 homes in British Columbia have been ordered to evacuate due to wildfires. Another 700 homes are under evacuation alert. Many of the evacuated homes are near the Wesley Ridge fire.
Kelly Greene, the emergency management minister, said the week has been tough for families who had to leave their homes. She visited the fire response teams and the local emergency center to show support.
“It was moving to see how much effort and care responders are putting into this,” said Greene.
There may be some good news for evacuees. Officials from the local region said some people could return home soon. The chief administrative officer said a list of approved return addresses will be released once final checks are complete.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience,” he said. “We are working with multiple groups to make sure it’s safe.”
More than 500 evacuees have already received help. This includes both online support and in-person services. Currently, 387 homes are under an evacuation order. Another 250 homes are under alert. Campers from Little Qualicum Falls Park also had to leave.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Officials believe it was likely started by human activity.
As crews continue their work, the public is reminded to stay alert, follow updates, and avoid restricted areas. With dry conditions and active flames, the danger remains high.
