Uncontained blaze to the northwest of Nanaimo is causing evacuations due to its rapid spread
Wesley Ridge Wildfire Continues to Grow on Vancouver Island
The Wesley Ridge wildfire on Vancouver Island has expanded to approximately 538 hectares as of August 6, 2025, increasing by 27 hectares from the previous day[1][4]. The exact cause of the fire remains undisclosed in current updates.
Evacuation Orders and Alerts
Evacuation orders remain in place for hundreds of residents near Cameron Lake and Highway 4, with about 390 homes affected[1][3]. Some residents have been allowed to return as soon as it is deemed safe, with ongoing efforts by the Regional District of Nanaimo to update and manage evacuations[1].
In addition, the Regional District of Nanaimo has issued multiple evacuation orders and alerts for properties in and around Little Qualicum River Village[5].
Firefighting Efforts
Firefighting efforts include 185 personnel, 9 helicopters (including night vision-equipped), 11 heavy equipment units, and support from local fire departments working to protect homes, critical infrastructure such as power lines, and Highway 4, which remains open[1]. No structures have been lost so far[1][2].
Impacted Areas
Two day-use areas along Highway 4 were closed for wildfire operations in Little Qualicum Falls Park[2]. Unfortunately, the historic railway trestle has been destroyed by the fire[3].
Other Wildfire Situations
The Wesley Ridge fire is not the only wildfire causing concern. Across Canada, many active fires are intensifying, including in BC, where more than 140 active fires are currently burning[6].
Safety Measures
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with a focus on safeguarding nearby areas like Cathedral Grove, a protected temperate rainforest with centuries-old trees, which is currently not threatened[3]. Cooler weather and light rain have aided containment efforts[2][4].
For ongoing updates, the Regional District of Nanaimo website and BC Wildfire Service are key resources[1]. It is also important to note that air quality warnings have been issued Canada-wide due to wildfire smoke from the Prairies[7].
[1] Regional District of Nanaimo [2] BC Wildfire Service [3] Parks Canada [4] Environment Canada [5] RDN Evacuation Orders and Alerts [6] BC Wildfire Service – Current Wildfires [7] Environment Canada – Air Quality Health Index
Scientists are closely monitoring the impact of the Wesley Ridge wildfire on the local weather and environmental-science in the region. Cooler weather and light rain have aided in containment efforts, but the fire's growth has raised concerns about the weather patterns in the future.
