A wildfire burning beside Birkenhead Lake north of Pemberton has quadrupled in size.
BC Wildfire Service has mapped the Birkenhead Lake wildfire, and on Aug. 9 estimated it to be 219 hectares, a jump from the previous day, when it was 50 hectares.
"Reported fire growth was expected due to topography,” says a fire information officer.
The Birkenhead Lake wildfire is burning out of control, but no homes or structures are threatened.
A lightning event on Aug. 5 sparked 13 fires in the Pemberton and Whistler area.
BC Wildfire Service has crews continuing to work on "operable objectives" and are being supported by aircraft in terrain that is unsafe for ground crews to access.
There are 26 firefighters, five operational staff members and two helicopters working the fire on Aug. 9.
Four other wildfires are burning nearby and are out of control, including the Rutherford Creek wildfire, estimated at 10 hectares.
Two helicopters and a water skimmer are responding to the wildfire along with 21 firefighters and one operational field staff member.
A steady procession of water bombers could be seen scooping water from Whistler's Green Lake on Friday, though it was not immediately clear which fire they were actioning.
Boaters should stay out of the way of air tankers and helicopters working on the lake.
Birkenhead Lake Park was closed due to the wildfire and evacuated as of Aug. 8.
"In the interest of public safety, all visitors should evacuate the park immediately and remain out of the area until further notice,” says BC Parks.
Anyone who sees a wildfire is asked to contact BCWS immediately at 1-800-663-5555 or text *5555.
