Expanded evacuation order due to escalating wildfire in proximity to Port Alberni, now covering 1,391 hectares
Fire Update: Mount Underwood Wildfire Progress and Evacuation Orders
The Mount Underwood wildfire, discovered on August 11, 2025, and currently spanning 1,391 hectares, is burning approximately 15 kilometres southwest of Port Alberni on Vancouver Island. The fire, which initially led to a ban on beach fires at a facility in the area due to the fire risk, is currently being held, meaning it is under control with no expected perimeter growth.
The expanded evacuation order due to the Mount Underwood fire affected primarily Electoral Area F in the Cowichan Valley Regional District and Electoral Area A in the Alberni-Clayoquet Regional District on Vancouver Island. For Electoral Area F, the evacuation order was rescinded as of August 20, 2025, indicating that the threat to life and safety in that area has passed and residents could return. For Electoral Area A, evacuation orders were issued due to the fire threat, and some parts of this area had evacuation orders that were downgraded to evacuation alerts as of August 20, 2025, allowing residents to prepare to return but remain vigilant.
Meanwhile, the wildfire northwest of Osoos, whose size is approximately 10 hectares, is not specified as being under control. No new details about this fire are provided. On Monday evening, the China Creek Campground and Marina, with 250 tent and RV campsites, was evacuated due to the wildfire. The cause of the Mount Underwood fire is not mentioned in the provided paragraph.
Firefighting efforts for the Mount Underwood fire include over 170 firefighters, helicopters, and heavy equipment working to contain hotspots and push containment lines. The Bamfield Road is closed between Bamfield and Port Alberni due to the Mount Underwood fire, but no information is given about the status of the China Creek Campground and Marina or any evacuation orders or evacuated areas due to the wildfire northwest of Osoos.
Scientists are closely monitoring the environmental science aspects of both Mount Underwood wildfire and the wildfire northwest of Osoos, with weather patterns playing a crucial role in the spread and control of these fires. Despite the evacuation orders and challenges faced in containing the Mount Underwood fire, research conducted by these scientists could help to better prepare for and manage future wildfires in the area.
