Listen to this article
Estimated 2 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
Environment Canada has issued an air quality warning Monday for the area around Boston Bar, B.C., where a wildfire is burning for its fifth day.
The Brunswick Creek wildfire, located about 55 kilometres north of Hope, was estimated at 12.3 square kilometers (1,230 hectares) in size on Monday, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS).
The wildfire did not grow overnight, though the BCWS noted aviation operations have been restricted due to poor visibility and high winds, which pose a risk for responder safety.
About 146 properties in the North Bend community and surrounding area have been under evacuation order since Saturday, and the Boothroyd Indian Band issued an evacuation order for its community, just north of Boston Bar, on Sunday.
Nearly 260 properties in Boston Bar are also under an evacuation alert, but many of them don’t contain structures, according to the Fraser Valley Regional District.
Monday’s air quality warning covers the Fraser Canyon south area, including North Bend, Boston Bar and Lytton.
The Brunswick Creek wildfire is seen burning near Boston Bar on Sunday. (B.C. Wildfire Service)
Environment Canada says some people, including those with certain health conditions, pregnant people, young children and those 65 and older, are more likely to be negatively impacted by the smoke.
The agency suggests keeping windows and doors closed but being mindful of the heat.
Officials detected the Brunswick Creek fire on July 2 burning near the community of Boston Bar, just off Highway 1.
The BCWS’s online situation page says the fire was human-caused, which is how any wildfire not sparked by lightning is categorized.
The BCWS said Sunday that high winds have resulted in extreme fire behaviour.