Dozens of properties in British Columbia’s East Kootenay region are now under an evacuation alert as another out-of-control wildfire grows.
The alert comes as firefighters continue battling major wildfires near Boston Bar in the Fraser Canyon, where crews are also warning the public not to interfere with emergency operations.
Premier Lake Properties Placed Under Alert
The Regional District of East Kootenay placed 72 properties in the Premier Lake area under evacuation alert after the Lussier River wildfire grew Saturday.
An evacuation alert means residents should be ready to leave quickly if conditions worsen or if an evacuation order is issued.
Latest B.C. Wildfire Notice
The Premier Lake alert is the latest wildfire-related notice in B.C.
It follows evacuation alerts and orders connected to two out-of-control fires near Boston Bar, where communities and properties remain under threat.
Brunswick Creek Fire Expands
Information from the B.C. Wildfire Service shows the Brunswick Creek wildfire has grown since Friday.
The fire now covers more than 30 square kilometres, up from about 28 square kilometres.
The fire remains out of control and continues to require air and ground response.
Cooler Weather Helped Crews
The wildfire service said cooler weekend temperatures helped firefighters make progress on the fires.
However, officials warned that hotter and drier conditions were expected to return, which could make suppression work more difficult.
Public Behaviour Creating Safety Risks
The B.C. Wildfire Service is also asking the public to stop actions that could disrupt firefighting efforts.
Since Highway 1 reopened Saturday between Boston Bar and Jackass Summit, officials said some drivers have been speeding through the fire zone.
Others have reportedly stopped to film ongoing firefighting operations.
Drone Forces Air Operations to Pause
Officials also reported that a drone was seen flying near the southeast flank of the Brunswick Creek wildfire while emergency aircraft were working in the area.
The wildfire service said the drone created a serious risk to crews and the public.
As a result, airtanker and helicopter operations were temporarily suspended.
Fines and Prison Time Possible
The B.C. Wildfire Service reminded the public that wildfire areas are flight-restricted zones.
Anyone who violates those restrictions could face fines of up to $25,000 and up to 18 months in prison.
Officials stressed that drones can ground firefighting aircraft when crews need them most.
Highway 1 Rules in Fire Zone
The wildfire service said the speed limit on Highway 1 through the affected fire zone is 60 km/h.
Drivers are also not allowed to stop in the fire zone.
Officials say these restrictions are necessary to keep emergency crews, evacuees and the public safe.
Wildfire conditions remain serious in British Columbia as the Lussier River fire prompts an evacuation alert in the East Kootenay region and the Brunswick Creek fire near Boston Bar continues to grow.
While cooler weather gave crews some relief, officials are now focused on preventing public interference from speeding drivers, roadside filming and drones. Residents in affected areas should stay alert, follow official instructions and be ready to leave if conditions change.