The BC Wildfire Service says the blaze that triggered evacuation alerts for properties in the Lytton area is “very scary” for the Interior community that was almost completely destroyed by flames in 2021.
Director of operations Cliff Chapman says heat, terrain, and winds are challenging firefighting efforts at the Cantilever Bar fire that now spans 4.6 kilometres in size since it was discovered Monday.
But he says crews are showing up through the day and night to do everything they can to contain it.
The area in the Fraser Canyon valley is known to be among the hottest places in Canada, setting the country’s all-time heat record of 49.6 °C on June 29, 2021. The next day, a fire destroyed most of the village.
“… With ash falling in the village last night, it’s a very scary fire for the community,” Chapman said on Tuesday.
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On Tuesday, Environment Canada issued a pair of special air quality statements for the Fraser Canyon, including Lytton, warning that the area could be affected by wildfire smoke over the next 24 to 48 hours.
“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events,” the statement said.
