More than 100 properties ordered to evacuate as wildfire grows near Big Bar Lake, B.C.
A wildfire caused by lightning near Big Bar Lake, B.C., has forced the evacuation of over 100 properties. Authorities have issued multiple evacuation orders and alerts as the fire continues to grow.
Why it matters
Wildfires are increasingly threatening residential areas, highlighting the growing impact of climate-related natural disasters on local communities.
The Fiftynine Creek wildfire was discovered Friday southeast of the lake and has grown to an estimated size of about 4,000 hectares (40 square kilometres), as of 8 p.m. PT Friday. The B.C. Wildfire Service believes the fire was caused by a lightning strike.
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District issued the order Friday evening for 131 properties around Big Bar Lake and Meadow Lake, which also covers Big Bar Lake Provincial Park, a popular camping destination that has nearly 50 campsites.
The regional district told CBC News it cannot yet confirm how many people have been asked to leave but says hundreds are likely affected.
People are being directed to leave by going east along Big Bar Road toward Highway 97, provided the route remains safe.
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