The out-of-control wildfire threatening Squamish, British Columbia, is expected to be classified as “held” within the next couple of days, according to the BC Wildfire Service. Favorable weather, including rainfall on Thursday night, has significantly improved conditions, prompting celebrations among local residents.
The blaze, which began Monday and triggered a local state of emergency, has grown to 60 hectares—an increase attributed to more accurate mapping. Despite its growth, fire activity has decreased substantially, thanks to rising humidity and aggressive suppression tactics. Additional crews and aircraft, including a Black Hawk helicopter, have joined the firefighting efforts, focusing on the northern and southern flanks of the fire.
Squamish Fire Rescue Chief Aaron Foote reported that burning trees had dropped dangerously close—within 40 metres—to some homes, placing over 200 properties under evacuation alert. Nonetheless, progress on containment has been strong.
District of Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford urged the public to stay off closed trails and remain mindful of ongoing emergency operations, particularly as the popular tourist area heads into a busy weekend.
The Squamish wildfire is among roughly 100 active fires in British Columbia, with the Pocket Knife Creek blaze in the province’s northeast emerging as the largest, now spanning over 1,500 square kilometres after merging with another fire.
The BC Wildfire Service is cautiously optimistic that forecasted rain across northern B.C. will help suppress major fires this weekend, though officials warn that a warming trend could return by Sunday, increasing fire risk again.
Swifteradio.com
