B.C. wildfire triggers air-quality warning amid evacuation orders

An out-of-control wildfire near Boston Bar has forced residents from their homes.

Wildfire smoke has triggered an air quality warning in British Columbia’s Fraser Canyon as Environment Canada urges residents to reduce or postpone strenuous outdoor activity.

Multiple fires were burning Monday between the communities of Hope and Lytton, including an out-of-control fire near Boston Bar that has grown to cover 1,230 hectares—or 12.3 square kilometres.

The Brunswick Creek wildfire has forced the evacuation of at least 120 properties in the North Bend and Fishblue Lake areas of the Fraser Valley Regional District, as well as from the Boothroyd Indian Band.

The weather office says smoke has caused reduced visibility in the area and advises residents to limit time outdoors until the warning has lifted.

“Some people are more likely to be negatively impacted by smoke,” the warning said.

“This includes people with lung and heart conditions, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people aged 65 and older, and anyone whose health is affected by a chronic condition or acute illness.”

The B.C. Wildfire Service says the fire’s recent growth was driven by high winds, which continue to pose safety risks for fire crews working to contain the blaze.

Environment Canada warns that indoor air can still contain high levels of smoke and potentially dangerous particulates and residents should monitor symptoms while inside.

“If your home is smoky or hot, spend time in places with cleaner, air-conditioned air such as community centres, libraries or malls,” the alert said.