Fort Nelson evacuation order update 

FORT NELSON, B.C. — The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (NRRM) released an update on Saturday afternoon regarding the Fort Nelson wildfire situation. 

According to the update on the NRRM website, favourable weather is expected despite drought conditions with a rain forecast expected to help with a window of progress. 

The Parker lake wildfire as of Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 9:55:35 a.m. remains 12,329 hectares in size.

“Firefighting efforts have remained on the flank of the fireline, to support the goal of community re-entry,” said the update. 

“Approximately 200 homes currently have structural protection measures in place, with more than a dozen helicopters and two dozen pieces of heavy equipment in place.”  

“BC Wildfire Service and Northern Rockies Fire Rescue continue to work in coordination to address wildfire and structural fire protection.”

The NRRM says “Continuous monitoring of the fire is crucial to support the community re-entry process, with fire behavior not expecting any significant growth.”

The update also says that the Patry Creek Wildfire does not pose an immediate threat to Fort Nelson, but conditions can rapidly change if strong northern winds and continued dry conditions occur. 

Highway 97 (Alaska Highway) is currently closed north of Fort Nelson, as is Highway 77. Information on Highway closures can be requested at 250-774-6956 and information on Highway 77 closures can be found on DriveBC.

Emergency Support Services are also reminding evacuees that Tuesday, May 21, 2024 is the renewal day of its services for another 7-day period. The renewal will allow evacuees to continue to receive support without the stress of re-registration while re-entry activities take place. 

The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) preparations for re-entry are underway by arranging for the advance return of essential service providers such as grocery operators, medical personnel and others.

The EOC completed the structural damage assessments, saying 10 properties were impacted with 4 homes lost to the Parker Lake wildfire.

Temporary Evacuation Area Access Permits are available for legitimate needs like livestock care or critical infrastructure maintenance. 

Once a safe-to return, announcement is made, residents who may require financial assistance for fuel to return home to Fort Nelson will be eligible for a $100 fuel voucher.

More updates can be expected on the NRRM Website or its Facebook page in the future.