An evacuation order has been issued for the northeast B.C. community of Fort Nelson due to a growing wildfire.
The order also applies to the Fort Nelson First Nation and other areas surrounding Fort Nelson.
A BC Emergency Alert message says the wildfire poses a threat to human life. Evacuees are being told to head to the Fort St. John reception centre, located at the North Peace Arena at 9805 96th Avenue.
The BC Wildfire Service said the fire was burning about 12 km from the Highway 77 junction, and was discovered Friday afternoon.
- 2 men charged in targeted killing of St. Albert woman who worked as a dentist: Alberta RCMP
- Unknown person found dead in Ontario house fire while residents out of country
- Kelowna man fined $5K for flying drone during 2023 McDougall Creek wildfire
- Wildfire funding not sufficient in Saskatchewan budget, says fire chief
By evening, the fire had grown to 800 hectares in size and was listed as “out of control.” It is suspected to be human-caused.
Get breaking National news
The wildfire service said in an update at 9 p.m. Friday that the blaze was “exhibiting extreme fire behaviour” and local conditions were challenging suppression efforts.
Highway 97 north of Fort Nelson is closed due to the fire.
The wildfire service said it was responding with ground crews and air support, including nine helicopters bucketing the fire.
Comments
Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.