Three new wildfires spark in northeast B.C.

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Three new wildfires were sparked in northeast B.C. on Wednesday, two of which were caused by human activity.

Each fire was less than a hectare in size.

Pedro Roldan-Delgado, a fire information officer with the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), says when crews arrived at the fire near the 255 Road, it was already being worked on by members of the public.

According to Roldan-Delgado, they were supported by four water tenders, and a tractor had plowed a guard around the fuel.

Crews from the wildfire service deemed the fire managed for the night as they were not anticipating any growth.

A fire near Pink Mountain was also being worked on by members of the public when crews arrived, and it was deemed under control.

A fire discovered near Wonowon was brought under control by industry workers.

Roldan-Delgado said when resources are available, someone from BCWS will be sent out to assess each fire again.

The fire information officer said the Stoddart Creek wildfire hasn’t grown significantly over the last two days and remains approximately 29,506 hectares.

Hotspots of the fire remain well within its perimeter, and crews are working on hotspots along the Alaska Highway.

Seven pieces of heavy equipment, two water tenders, four helicopters and 33 firefighters are working on the Stoddart Creek wildfire.

The Stoddart Creek wildfire was discovered on May 13th and reignited on September 15th due to fire activity in hotspots within the perimeter. 

On September 15th, the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) issued an evacuation alert and order due to the fire. Details on areas under evacuation alert and order can be found on the PRRD’s website.

The Blueberry River First Nation Emergency Operations Centre also issued an evacuation alert, though Elders and members with chronic illness were asked to leave the community.  

According to Roldan-Delgado, Blueberry First Nation is not under threat at this time, and orders and alerts are being assessed.

The Donnie Creek wildfire remains out of control at approximately 589,037 hectares but saw minimal growth due to cool winds and lower temperatures.

Crews are working near the Jedney Road and Beaton Airport Road.

In the Prince George Fire Centre, there are currently 46 active wildfires, and 386 are burning across the province.

For updates on wildfires, visit BCWS’ website.