A large wildfire northwest of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island is growing quickly and has forced many people to evacuate their homes.
The Wesley Ridge wildfire started on July 31 on the north side of Cameron Lake. It has spread to cover 389 hectares, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service. Strong wind gusts pushed the fire’s edge toward nearby homes, causing concern for residents.
The Regional District of Nanaimo has issued evacuation orders and alerts for homes near Little Qualicum River Village. So far, 191 homes are under evacuation orders, which means residents must leave immediately. Another 283 homes are on evacuation alert, meaning people should be ready to leave at any time.
A local park, Little Qualicum Falls Park, is also under evacuation order. Two day-use areas along Highway 4 were closed to support firefighting efforts.
Officials say no homes have been lost so far, but a historic railway trestle was destroyed in the fire. Firefighters from across Vancouver Island, including teams from Coombs and Dashwood, are helping to fight the blaze. The effort involves over 60 firefighting personnel, five helicopters and airtankers, heavy machinery, and equipment to protect buildings.
The fire is believed to have been caused by human activity.
Highway 4 remains open, but officials warn drivers to be careful and watch for firefighting crews working nearby.
B.C.’s wildfire situation has worsened recently, with more than 140 active fires burning across the province. Many new fires were likely started by lightning strikes, as tens of thousands of strikes were recorded by fire centres in Kamloops, Cariboo, and Prince George since July 30.
