Westbound lanes of Sooke Road in Colwood remain closed following an early morning fire at an unoccupied house. The city reported the fire near Veterans Memorial Parkway just before 3 a.m. on Wednesday, September 17.
Fire crews acted quickly to control the blaze. By shortly after 5 a.m., firefighters were still at the scene watching for hot spots and assessing the structure for safety concerns. Officials warned that due to potential structural issues, the road could remain closed for several more hours.
Eastbound traffic was allowed to resume by 6:30 a.m., while westbound lanes remain closed as crews continue their work. Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes until the area is fully cleared.
This marks the second incident in the area involving an unoccupied house in recent days. On September 11, firefighters responded to a similar fire, prompting the temporary closure of Veterans Memorial Parkway between Sooke Road and Allandale Road.
Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported in either incident. The quick response of Colwood fire crews helped prevent the fire from spreading to nearby properties.
Authorities urge residents to remain cautious and report any unusual activity in vacant homes. While the fire caused temporary traffic disruptions, there was no major damage to the surrounding area.
The city continues to monitor Sooke Road and advises motorists to stay updated on road conditions through local alerts. Fire crews remain on site to ensure the structure is fully secure and that any remaining hot spots are safely managed.
Officials remind the public that even unoccupied homes can pose fire risks, and safety precautions should always be maintained. The repeated incidents have highlighted the importance of vigilance and prompt emergency response in the Colwood area.
Motorists traveling through Colwood are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time as crews work to reopen the westbound lanes. The city has not yet provided an exact time for when full traffic will resume.
Residents praised the rapid response of fire crews, noting that their efforts minimized potential damage and kept the community safe. Fire officials continue to investigate the cause of the latest blaze to prevent future occurrences.
Authorities continue to advise caution around vacant properties, especially in residential areas. They also encourage the public to follow city alerts for real-time updates on road closures and safety notices.
