Vancouver Island Wildfire Continues, Highway Closure Expected for ‘Several Days’

Firefighters are being deployed to combat a raging wildfire on Vancouver Island that has already consumed over two square kilometers of forest and resulted in the closure of a major highway. With over 60 firefighting personnel already on the scene, an additional 20 firefighters are being sent to assist in containing the out-of-control Cameron Bluffs wildfire near Port Alberni.

Despite some relief from light rain, officials caution that the fire is far from being extinguished. Bryce Moreira, the incident commander, stated that the firefighting efforts will continue for several more days. Crews are focused on protecting the ancient Cathedral Grove forest on the western flank of the fire while utilizing aerial bombers to combat the eastern flank when weather conditions allow.

The fire, believed to be caused by human activity, prompted the closure of Highway 4, severing the vital connection between Port Alberni, Tofino, Ucluelet, and the rest of British Columbia. Although a detour route has been established, it was temporarily closed on Friday to retrieve a vehicle that had rolled off the treacherous gravel road into Francis Lake.

Fortunately, there are no immediate threats to lives, structures, or critical infrastructure from the Cameron Bluffs fire. The blaze is considered a high priority due to the highway closure and its proximity to Cathedral Grove. Currently, there are 82 active wildfires in the province, with 29 classified as out of control, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service.