There are no evacuation orders or alerts in place for Sayward
Dozens of firefighters are working on an out-of-control wildfire burning on northeast Vancouver Island, less than six kilometres from the Village of Sayward.
The Newcastle Creek wildfire was ignited Monday afternoon and rapidly grew in size, in part due to gusty winds. Late Tuesday, however, the fire appeared to be holding at just under one square kilometre.
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“The fire at this time is moving in a direction that is parallel to the community of Sayward,” said the B.C. Wildfire Service. “However, the community is being impacted by smoke, as are other parts of Vancouver Island.”
About 55 fire-fighters, three helicopters and water tenders were dispatched to fight the fire on Tuesday. Another chopper and more ground crew are expected to be added Wednesday, according to the Strathcona Regional District, which has activated a regional emergency operations centre.
Cooler temperatures are expected Wednesday and the rest of the week, which bodes well for suppression efforts.
There are no evacuation orders or alerts in place for the Village, which is about an hour’s drive away from Campbell River.
On Wednesday, the Campbell River Fire Department warned a total fire ban is likely coming due to dangerously dry conditions. The fire danger rating in Campbell River and the surrounding area is high.
“With little to no rain in the forecast and active fires burning in the area, a total fire ban is likely soon,” said Chief Dan Verdun.
The B.C. Wildfire Service says the fire was human-caused.
Early Wednesday, Environment Canada issued an air quality statement for East Vancouver Island due to wildfire smoke. Smoky conditions could fluctuate along the coast as local winds change through the day.
Environment Canada said wildfire smoke can have harmful effects, even at low concentrations. While mild irritation and discomfort are common, people with lung disease, heart disease, seniors, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors should exercise more caution as they are at higher risk of the health impacts of wildfire smoke.
chchan@postmedia.com
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