Wildfire past Pemberton grows to more than 770 hectares; evacuation alert still in place

A wildfire past Pemberton has continued to grow over the last few days as nearby residents pray for rain.

The Birkenhead Lake wildfire is now 772 hectares, according to the latest update from the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) at 12:11 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 20. An evacuation alert is now in place for 28 properties near the “out of control” fire. The lightning-caused fire ignited Aug. 5.

The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) said it issued the alert based on recommendations from BCWS and because of the potential danger to public safety.

Last week, chair of the SLRD, Jen Ford, urged residents on evacuation alert to be ready to flee. “An alert means being ready to leave at a moment’s notice,” she said. “It means having your go-bag packed and have an evacuation plan confirmed with the people in your vicinity.”

Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park was also closed to the public on Aug. 8 to protect public safety. People are warned to avoid the area. BCWS has assigned 28 firefighters and support personnel to the blaze. Heavy helicopters are supporting ground crews. BCWS said in its update the fire is burning in steep and challenging terrain. Thankfully, recent rain seems to have improved matters.

“Today and tomorrow will be overcast with deep cloud cover and low visibility within the Pemberton zone,” said BCWS. “Showers are possible throughout the zone and tomorrow with the potential for between 2 to 5 mm of rain. Starting Thursday, a weak ridge will return, bringing seasonal temperatures until the weekend. Fire behaviour within the zone has been reduced by recent rainfall, lower temperatures and higher relative humidity. Expected fire behaviour today will be generally Rank 1, a smouldering ground fire with no visible flame.”

Meanwhile, the Rutherford Creek wildfire southwest of Pemberton is “being held” at 67 hectares, according to an update at 1 p.m. today. This means it is projected based on fuel and weather conditions and resource availability to “remain within the current perimeter, control line or boundary.” It has been burning since Aug. 6. Lightning is the suspected cause.