Residents warned ‘not to return’ to Kiskatinaw River wildfire area

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Evacuees from the Kiskatinaw River area have been warned by the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) not to return for the foreseeable future.

The fire, now standing at 21,679 hectares, has spread across the B.C.-Alberta border, prompting evacuation notices with the County of Grande Prairie.

However, the Grande Prairie Regional Emergency Partnership acknowledged in an update on Tuesday no structural damage on properties had occurred.  

The community of Kelly Lake in British Columbia has not been as fortunate, with the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) acknowledging seven structures were lost in the community during a recent update.

The PRRD said in a post on Facebook on Wednesday, June 11th that although residents may be “anxious” in returning to their homes, evacuation orders “remain in effect” for evacuees’ safety.

The district has issued two alerts and five evacuation orders in regards to the fire, which was first reported on May 28th.

It said BC Hydro crews are working in the area to restore infrastructure and ensure systems are safe.

“This is not a sign of imminent return,” reads the post. “The area is still not safe for re-entry at this time.

“There continues to be active wildfire activity and significant hazards in the area, and emergency responders need space to work safely.”

The post concludes with the news there is no timetable for a safe return for community members.

For the latest information on the Kiskatinaw River wildfire and other wildfires throughout northeast B.C., visit Energeticcity.ca’s wildfire coverage for updates.