Fish Creek wildfire still ‘out of control’ despite progress, reignition risk remains 

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Fish Creek wildfire has seen a decrease in activity but may flare up again from high winds and temperatures over the weekend. 

On May 3rd, the City of Fort St. John released an update on the Fish Creek Community Forest wildfire saying progress has been made in containing the blaze, but it is still listed as ‘out of control’ until all perimeters are secure. 

The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) and the Fort St. John and Taylor fire departments will continue containing the fire perimeter and hotspots today. 

“Fire breaks east of the community forest are being cleared without the aid of machinery due to the challenging steep terrain,” says the city’s update. 

BCWS says ground crews are using direct attack strategies and establishing control lines adjacent to the fire perimeter.

Helicopters will also support the crews if needed. 

The service says reduced winds, higher relative humidity and lower temperatures on the night of May 2nd significantly reduced fire behaviour.

However, both the service and city warn the fire may reignite as temperatures and winds increase. 

“While fire behaviour is minimal this morning, there is potential for it to pick up through the day as temperatures rise and winds from the passing cold front increase,” says BCWS. 

The Fort St. John Fire Department also had an active patrol remain on site that night to monitor for flare ups as the wind increased. 

Fish Creek Community Forest remains closed and security crews are patrolling the area for the public’s safety. 

The city is asking people to stay clear of the area to not disrupt fire suppression efforts. 

More information on the wildfire will be published on the city’s Facebook page and website.