(UPDATE) Cluster of wildfires around Highway 52 expands, merges into one blaze

Updated, May 5th, 1 p.m.: This fire has now been brought ‘under control.’ To read the most up-to-date story about this incident, click here.

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — Wildfires in the Highway 52 area southwest of Dawson Creek have merged into one large fire, according to the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS).

Initially a cluster of five wildfires alongside the highway heading toward Tumbler Ridge, the latest update from the wildfire authority has one fire measuring 185 hectares and two fires north and south of the location listed as ‘being held.’

BCWS confirmed to Energeticcity.ca three fires have now merged into a singular fire. 

The fire has already caused a communications outage within Tumbler Ridge, including the loss of email, internet and phone lines, according to a Facebook post from the district.

The post also acknowledges most district offices are currently offline. 

With warmer temperatures and more wind gusts forecast, efforts are being made to stop the flames from spreading across the highway, according to BCWS fire information officer Karley Desrosiers.

Desrosiers said 33 personnel and three helicopters were on site battling the fire, with air tankers available should they be required.

“Heavy equipment and fire crews were working overnight on some small-scale hand ignitions to bring the fire to the highway,” Desrosiers said. “When the wind picks up later on today, it will reduce the likelihood of uncontrolled growth towards the highway.

“That was successful over the evening. Then [we’re] just preparing for the potential for increased winds this afternoon, and then with those hot temperatures, likely going to see increased fire activity later on today.”

Meanwhile, DriveBC says a 17.9 stretch of the highway between Brassey Road and Bearhole Lake Road continues to service single-lane alternating traffic. A pilot car will navigate motorists through the fire zone. 

According to the traffic authority, an update will be made on the situation on Friday afternoon, May 2nd at 3:00 p.m. Check DriveBC for updates.

Energeticcity.ca will update this story as more information becomes available.