Update: Chetwynd wildfire evacuation order and alert dropped

Update: Thursday, 11:50 am:

The Wildmare Creek wildfire evacuation order and alert have been dropped and people may return home. The highway has re-opened to single lane traffic.

UPDATE: the @prrdistrict has RESCINDED an #Evacuation Alert for the Pine River area due to the Wildmare Creek wildfire. The threat to life & safety has passed. More info: https://t.co/C5KivGYCBU #BCWildfire #Chetwynd #BCHwy97 https://t.co/IydbnAnsdy

— Emergency Info BC (@EmergencyInfoBC) April 25, 2024

Original story: Wednesday, 10:30 pm

A 50-hectare wildfire near Chetwynd has resulted in an Evacuation Order for the Peace River Regional District.

According to the BC Wildfire Service, the blaze is considered out of control and is suspected to be human-caused.

The Order is in place for the following areas:

• Directly West of Bisset Creek
• South to Pine River
• East to Wildmare Creek

All evacuated residents are asked to head to the Reception Centre at the District of Chetwynd Municipal Office located on 5400 Hospital Road.

Due to fire operations in the area, Highway 97 is currently closed. In addition, the BC Wildfire Service crews continue to respond with aviation support.

In addition, an Evacuation Alert has been issued for areas including:

• The intersection Fernando Subdivision and Hwy 97S continuing northwest for 1 Km.
• From this point, continue southwest to Wildmare Creek
• Following Wildmare Creek southeast to the Pine River
• Continuing along the Pine River northeast for 2 km
• Continue north to the railroad tracks.
• Follow the railroad tracks east for 1 Km.
• From there, continue north for .17 Km.
• Continue east for .13 Km.
• From this point, northwest to the intersection of Fernando Subdivision and Hwy 97S.

Residents are asked to pack essential items such as government-issued ID, medications, eyeglasses, cell phone & charger and, if time and space permits, keepsakes for quick departure.

UPDATE: The #Evacuation Order issued by @prrdistrict due to Wildmare Creek #BCWildfire remains in effect. This wildfire is a threat to life & safety. If you are in the impacted area, leave immediately. Map & more info: https://t.co/Kiuo0Ssq8U #BCHwy97 #Chetwynd https://t.co/7AUpx4bL87

— Emergency Info BC (@EmergencyInfoBC) April 25, 2024