Flashbacks’ in Lytton, B.C., as anxious residents face evacuation orders, alerts
The B.C. Wildfire Service reports the Saw Creek wildfire has grown to seven square kilometres, prompting a state of emergency in Lytton and Blue Sky County. Over 230 properties are currently under evacuation orders or alerts, while Highway 1 remains closed between Boston Bar and Spences Bridge according to officials.
How large is the Saw Creek wildfire?
The fire grew by approximately 100 hectares overnight, reaching a total size of seven square kilometres, the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) stated Sunday. Fire information officer Paula Walbauer said the blaze is burning on both sides of Highway 1 south of the village and upslope from homes under evacuation order.
The BCWS has deployed 135 firefighters and nine helicopters to the scene. Structure protection crews have also installed sprinkler systems to defend homes. Officials believe the fire was human-caused, which the agency defines as any fire not started by lightning.
Which areas are under evacuation orders?
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) declared a state of emergency for Lytton and Blue Sky County. As of Sunday, more than 60 properties are under evacuation order and roughly 170 properties are under evacuation alert, meaning residents must be ready to leave immediately.
The Lytton First Nation has also issued evacuation orders for some of its residents. Lytton Mayor Denise O’Connor told CBC News she feels “pretty confident” about the fight, citing the “incredible” resources and water tenders provided by other communities.
What could happen next with the fire?
Weather conditions may prove challenging in the coming days. Paula Walbauer noted that peak temperatures are expected to increase early next week, and the region is forecast to remain very hot and dry.
A shift in wind direction is expected Tuesday afternoon, moving from the north to the east. This change could potentially alter fire activity or the direction of the blaze, according to Walbauer.
How does this relate to the 2021 Lytton fire?
The Saw Creek fire was first spotted Friday evening, 11 days before the five-year anniversary of the 2021 wildfire that killed two people and destroyed the community. Resident Dean Adams described the timing as “eerie,” noting the similar hot and windy climate.
Teresa Raphael, a member of the Lytton First Nation, said the situation has brought back “a lot of flashbacks.” Raphael’s mother recently returned to her home, which was lost in the 2021 fire, just as the current blaze began.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Highway 1?
Highway 1 remains closed between Boston Bar and Spences Bridge due to the wildfire.
How many resources are fighting the Saw Creek fire?
The B.C. Wildfire Service has assigned 135 firefighters and nine helicopters to the fire.
Why are some residents under “alert” instead of “order”?
Residents under evacuation alert must be ready to leave at a moment’s notice, while those under evacuation order must leave immediately.
How do you think communities can better prepare for recurring natural disasters in high-risk zones?