A five-hectare wildfire burning near Squamish remains out of control, as air and ground crews continue an aggressive response backed by multiple agencies, the district said in an update.
Squamish Fire Rescue is working closely with the BC Wildfire Service, Squamish RCMP, Squamish Nation, provincial emergency services, and both local and provincial emergency operations centres. Helicopters remain the primary tool in fighting the fire due to the steep terrain. Three helicopters are in operation on Tuesday, with fixed-wing aircraft on standby if conditions worsen.
On the ground, 24 BC Wildfire Service firefighters are tackling the flames, supported by Squamish fire crews who are installing sprinkler systems to protect nearby structures. The fire, although not growing in size according to the latest estimates, remains classified as out of control, meaning it could still spread. Crews are focusing efforts on shielding homes and critical infrastructure.
A State of Local Emergency has been declared.
Evacuation Alerts and Possible Expansion
Evacuation alerts are in place for properties at the east end of Depot Road — including the campground — and areas at the end of Tantalus Road. Officials anticipate expanding the alert zone Tuesday afternoon as a precaution. No evacuation orders have been issued, but residents in the affected areas are being asked to be ready to leave if necessary, the District says.
If evacuation orders are issued, emergency personnel will conduct door-to-door notifications, and alerts will be sent through the District’s official channels.
Area Closures and Drone Warning
Residents and visitors are being advised to avoid the area, including the trail network that stretches from Alice Lake Provincial Park to SkyRidge. Trails such as Jack’s Trail and Debeck’s Hill are now closed. The district has also issued a warning against flying drones in the vicinity of the fire zone. Drone activity has interfered with aerial suppression efforts and is prohibited by law within 9.3 kilometres of a wildfire.
Comments
NOTE: The North Shore Daily Post welcomes your opinions and comments. We do not allow personal attacks, offensive language or unsubstantiated allegations. We reserve the right to edit comments for length, style, legality and taste and reproduce them in print, electronic or otherwise. For further information, please contact the editor or publisher, or see our Terms and Conditions.