Expanding wildfire near Port Alberni reaches 1,391 hectares, evacuation orders extended
Mount Underwood Wildfire on Vancouver Island Improves, Evacuation Orders Lifted
The Mount Underwood wildfire, currently burning on Vancouver Island, covers about 3,603 hectares (36 square kilometers) and remains out of control. However, firefighters do not expect it to grow beyond this size due to recent rainfall and minimal fire behavior.
The fire behavior is mostly rank one, indicating a smoldering ground fire with few open flames. Despite the ongoing challenges, the situation has improved with evacuation orders easing in various areas.
Evacuation Updates
Some evacuation orders and alerts have been lifted or downgraded. For example, evacuation orders for the China Creek Campground and Headquarters Bay were lifted, but these areas remain on alert, meaning residents should be prepared to leave quickly if conditions change.
The City of Port Alberni and the Tseshaht First Nation's reserves are no longer under alert. The Cowichan Valley Regional District has rescinded evacuation orders for multiple properties, noting the threat to life and safety has passed. Some areas previously under evacuation orders have been downgraded to alerts, like the Cameron Heights and Tiipis areas.
Road Closures
The main road access to Bamfield remains closed between Bamfield and Port Alberni, affecting travel and access in this region.
Additional Context
The fire has caused significant infrastructure damage, including the destruction of 56 power poles and about 20 kilometers of power lines, leading to power outages affecting over 500 customers in Bamfield and nearby First Nations communities. BC Hydro is working on restoring power, estimating restoration by around August 30, though this may change due to difficult terrain.
Approximately 160 personnel, seven helicopters, and heavy equipment are engaged in firefighting efforts, focusing on containment and reducing spread.
In summary, while the Mount Underwood fire remains active and out of control, the situation has improved with evacuation orders easing, no expected growth in fire size, and ongoing road closures mainly affecting Bamfield access.
Science reports indicate that the weather pattern has contributed to the recent rainfall, which has helped firefighters in their efforts to control the Mount Underwood wildfire. In the field of environmental-science, this rainfall is crucial in modifying the flame behavior and reducing the spread of such wildfires.
