Wildfires Spread Across British Columbia as Crews Battle Growing Blaze Near Lytton

 

A new wildfire has broken out near Hope, British Columbia, adding to the growing number of wildfires burning across the province. The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) reports the fire was discovered on Wednesday near the Serpent’s Back Trail and is currently estimated at 0.6 hectares. The fire remains out of control and is believed to be human-caused.

This fire is part of a broader crisis, with over 80 wildfires burning across British Columbia. More than half are classified as out of control, according to the BCWS. Among the most concerning is the Izman Creek wildfire north of Lytton, which has prompted evacuation orders and continues to grow. Initially measured at 25 hectares on July 1, it expanded to 100 hectares by July 4. The Lytton First Nation remains under evacuation alert.

Crews are actively engaged with ground personnel and aerial support, including three helicopters. Overnight efforts included structure protection and patrols. The cause of the Izman Creek fire is also suspected to be human-related.

Meanwhile, the Nikaia Creek wildfire west of Lytton is now classified as "being held," meaning it is not expected to spread under current conditions. Discovered on June 30, the six-hectare fire also prompted evacuation orders and is similarly believed to be human-caused. This blaze comes exactly four years after a devastating fire destroyed much of Lytton on June 30, 2021, killing two people. That fire's cause remains undetermined.

Evacuations and road closures are impacting travel in the region. Highway 12 between Lytton and Lillooet is closed, and Highway 1 between Lytton and Spences Bridge will be shut down temporarily for planned construction.

The weather forecast for the region is mostly sunny with daytime temperatures ranging from 25 to 31 degrees Celsius.

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