Residents of Lavington and nearby Coldstream can finally return to their homes after days of uncertainty. The evacuation order caused by the wildfire in the Noble Canyon area has now been lifted. Officials announced on Sunday afternoon that the order has been downgraded to an evacuation alert. This means people are allowed back but must remain prepared to leave again if conditions worsen.
The Coldstream Lavington wildfire first sparked on September 5 and quickly drew concern across the region. Firefighters and emergency crews moved in to battle the flames as residents on Highway 6 and Noble Canyon Road were told to evacuate. The fire forced several families from their homes and left the community on edge as smoke filled the area.
Officials with the BC Wildfire Service said the blaze has remained stable since late Saturday. Crews reported no growth overnight, which brought some relief to the communities nearby. The fire is currently showing rank one and two behaviour. This level is described as a low-intensity fire with mostly smouldering ground activity, small visible flames, and very slow movement. It remains mapped at about 67 hectares in size.
Authorities have confirmed the Coldstream Lavington wildfire was human-caused. The exact source has not yet been released, but investigators are working to determine what sparked it. This detail has added to frustration in the community, as residents know that many wildfires across the province each year can be prevented. Fire officials continue to remind the public that carelessness with campfires, tools, or cigarettes can quickly lead to dangerous blazes during dry weather.
Even though the order has been lifted, the area is still under an evacuation alert. This means residents must stay ready to leave at short notice if the fire becomes a greater threat. People are being asked to keep important items, emergency kits, and pets ready in case the alert is upgraded again. A handful of homes in Coldstream remain under alert, and residents there have been told to remain extra cautious.
Evacuees who still need assistance can register through the Emergency Support Services website at ess.gov.bc.ca. The service offers temporary shelter, food, and support for anyone affected by wildfire evacuations. Local authorities stress that people should use this resource if they are still struggling to return home safely.
The firefighting effort has been significant since the blaze began. Crews have worked both on the ground and in the air, with helicopters dropping water to cool hot spots and heavy equipment creating barriers to slow the spread. Structural protection teams have been on site to safeguard homes and important infrastructure. Local officials praised the fast response of crews and the cooperation between provincial wildfire teams and community responders. Their combined work has been credited with stopping the fire from spreading further.
For many families in Lavington, returning home brought relief but also unease. The wildfire remains active, and the dry conditions mean the threat has not completely passed. Authorities continue to urge people to stay away from fire zones unless necessary. This allows crews to work more effectively and ensures that roads remain clear for emergency vehicles. Residents are also asked to report any signs of new smoke immediately.
The fact that the Coldstream Lavington wildfire is human-caused has led to renewed calls for awareness and prevention. Officials say wildfire safety is a shared responsibility. Community education programs continue to highlight how small actions, such as ensuring vehicles do not spark dry grass or fully extinguishing campfires, can make the difference between safety and disaster.
For now, the wildfire is under control and showing no growth. The lifting of the evacuation order is an encouraging sign for Lavington and Coldstream, but residents remain cautious. The situation can still change quickly, and emergency officials remind people to stay informed, follow official guidance, and remain prepared.
While the community is grateful that the worst outcome was avoided, the fire season in British Columbia is still ongoing. Continued vigilance and cooperation will be essential in keeping people and homes safe as crews monitor the Coldstream Lavington wildfire in the days ahead.
