Three fires continue to burn out of control near Pemberton with one of them growing to 700 hectares.
BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) last mapped the Birkenhead Lake wildfire at 706 hectares on Aug. 15 just before 9 p.m.
"The Birkenhead Lake fire has crews continuing to work on fuel modification objectives along Birkenhead Road,” says a fire information officer. "Heavy equipment is working to build road access.”
The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) issued the evacuation alert Wednesday evening for properties in the vicinity of Birkenhead Lake Estates and Blackwater Road due to the “out of control” wildfire.
The SLRD issued the alert based on recommendations from BCWS and because of the potential danger to public safety. People on alert have been asked to pre-register for emergency support services and to pack essential items.
Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park remains closed to the public as a precautionary measure.
"Community members can expect to see smoke. The public is asked to stay clear of the area and Birkenhead Lake,” says BCWS.
A total of 29 firefighters, one helicopter and four pieces of heavy equipment are at the fire on Aug. 16.
The Rutherford Creek wildfire remains small at 62 hectares on Friday.
"Crews are making good progress with direct attack tactics on the northeast and northwest flanks. Heavy equipment continues to build guards on the north flank to fire prevent spread and open road access,” says the information officer.
Another wildfire burning nearby is the Upper Elaho River wildfire, currently mapped at 394 hectares.
Most of B.C. is experiencing cooler weather, with a risk of thunderstorms in the Central and Southern Interior.
BCWS says despite the change in weather, fuels remain dry in many areas of the province due to consecutive days of warming and drying conditions.
"We ask everyone to be mindful of activities that could spark a new wildfire, as fuels remain susceptible to new ignitions,” says the service.
As of Friday, there are 384 wildfires burning in B.C.,10 of which started in the last 24 hours.
If you see a wildfire, you’re asked to call BCWS by texting *5555 or calling 1-800-663-5555.
