Community Update #5: Current wildfires in the SLRD

News date
Applicable communities
All Areas

Issued: August 17, 2024

There continue to be a number of wildfires burning within, or near, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD). The SLRD continues to monitor this dynamic and evolving situation, and is working closely with BC Wildfire Service to ensure we are up-to-date on the status of each fire.

The following situational awareness update is from BC Wildfire Service and is the most up-to-date information at this time. Please note that this information can change quickly; for updates and the latest information, please always check the BC Wildfire Service’s website.

SLRD situational awareness:
•    Three fires in the SLRD are listed as ‘out of control’
•    There are no ‘Fires of Note’ in the SLRD
•    An Evacuation Alert has been issued by the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) due to the Birkenhead Lake wildfire (V31836) in the vicinity of Birkenhead Lake Estates and Blackwater Road.
•    BC Parks has closed Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park. Please visit bcparks.ca/active-advisories for more information on park-related impacts related to wildfires.

Wildfires listed as ‘out of control’:

Coastal Fire Centre

Birkenhead Lake (V31836): 706 hectares / out of control
As of Friday, August 16, reported by BC Wildfire Services – Crews and heavy equipment continue to construct a fuel free guard along Birkenhead Lake Road towards the Lake. Sprinkler lines are in place on the east flank. A Structure Protection Specialist has assessed the community and FireSmart objectives are being action by community members. All suppression tactics are being considered as deemed practicable.

Based on recommendations from the BC Wildfire Service, an Evacuation Alert has been issued by the SLRD for properties around Birkenhead Lake Estates and Blackwater Road.

Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park has been closed to the public. Please visit bcparks.ca/active-advisories for more information on park-related impacts related to wildfires. The public is asked to stay clear of the area and Birkenhead Lake.

FireSmart opportunity: The SLRD FireSmart Team will be in the Blackwater area Sunday, August 18 starting at 10 a.m. to meet with community members currently on Evacuation Alert and to share guidance on how to make their properties FireSmart. To book a visit from one of our Wildfire Mitigation Specialists, please send an email to firesmart@slrd.bc.ca with Blackwater in the subject line or leave a voice mail at 604-384-7323.

Rutherford Creek (V31841): 62 hectares / out of control
As of Friday, August 16, reported by BC Wildfire Services – Crews are utilizing direct attack tactics on the north and northwest flanks. The north flank is being supported by heavy equipment. Aviation resources continue to reduce heat in extreme terrain and support ground crews as required.

Upper Elaho River (V32132): 394 hectares / out of control
As of Friday, August 16, reported by BC Wildfire Services - BC Wildfire Service is working with Sqomish Forestry to establish road access to the Upper Elaho River Fire (V32132). Crews and helicopters are prioritizing the suppression of spotting and fire activity on the north flank. Aviation resources are being deployed as visibility allows. This fire is burning Rank 2 and 3 with occasional torching.

Air Quality
Environment Canada and the BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy have issued Smoky Skies Bulletin for many parts of the province, including areas of the SLRD, affected by wildfire smoke.

Smoke may be visible and may be smelled in the air. Fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk. As smoke levels increase health risks increase.

People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke include seniors, pregnant women, people who smoke, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people involved in strenuous exercise and people with an existing  illness or chronic health condition. Those who are more likely to be impacted should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors or seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.

Emergency preparedness reminders:

  • Know the hazards – knowing what hazards you need to plan for is the first step 
    to being prepared.
  • Visit the FireSmartBC to learn how to make your property resilient to wildfire. The SLRD Wildfire Mitigation Team is on standby, ready to help. Book your Free FireSmart Assessment by email at firesmart@slrd.bc.ca or by phone at 604-384-7323.
  • Use the FireSmart checklist to make sure you are ready before or during an alert: https://firesmartcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/FSC_Wildfire-Evac…
  • Make an emergency plan for yourself, all members of your household and your pets.
  • Prepare your emergency supplies and build your kits:
  • Ensure you have supplies, including food, water and necessary medicines, for at least 72 hours.
  • Research insurance options and ensure your plan is up-to-date.
  • Evacuation routes: understand how you will leave the area.
  • Evacuation and recovery resources- Learn what happens in evacuations, what financial assistance you might be eligible for and other recovery resources.
  • Download resources for Farm & Ranch Wildfire Preparedness here. 

Stay Informed: In an emergency, misinformation is dangerous. Get your information from official sources, and make sure you have access:

Applicable service
Emergency Management
Notice type(s)
Emergency Notice