Wesley Ridge Fire Continues To Grow

The Wesley Ridge Wildfire, burning north of Cameron Lake, is still listed as out of control, burning about 570 hectares.

Yesterday, firefighters took advantage of the cooler conditions and have made what BC Wildfire Service calls excellent progress in suppressing fire activity in residential areas and were advancing to build containment lines along the more remote parts of the northern flank.

On the southern and western edges the fire is burning in inaccessible and challenging terrain where there are large amounts of timber and forest fuels available.

Structural protection systems and crews are in place to ensure the continued protection of properties on the lake.

Crews and helicopters are working to prevent further westward growth of the fire along the western shore of Cameron Lake.

Higher upslope, the western edge of the Wesley Ridge wildfire is burning in challenging terrain, with limited ground access.

Heavy equipment was working to secure access into the area, with ground crews using direct attack strategies where possible.

On the northern edge of the fire, heavy equipment is establishing a guard.

Some residents have expressed concern that the Wesley Ridge fire could reach Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Park, a nearby temperate rainforest containing trees that have stood for 800 years, but the wildfire service says it is not under threat.

Ground crews are using direct attack strategies to remove fuel from between the free-burning edge of the wildfire and the guard and creating a workable environment for ground crews to safely action the fire in this area.

Helicopters continue to support operations, moving crews and dropping water when visibility allows, and it is safe to do so.

Fixed wing aircraft have dropped retardant and water on the fire, suppressing fire behaviour and facilitating direct and indirect attack strategies. Air tankers and skimmers are available for continued support if operationally required.

Fallers and ground crews are working to assess and fall danger trees, creating a safe and workable environment for crews.