News Release - August 8, 2018

RDN Wildfire Update

Nanaimo Lakes Wildfire

As of this morning, the Nanaimo Lakes wildfire is 10 per cent contained. There are 64 personnel as well as heavy machinery fighting on the ground and eight helicopters fighting in the air. The fire has burned an estimated 160 hectares and the growth of the fire on August 7th was north towards Barsby Lake and west towards Nanaimo Lakes. There was minimal growth towards Nanaimo. BC Wildfire Service crews remained on site overnight and today, they continue working with heavy equipment to establish control lines. For information regarding active wildfires please visit BC Fire Info or call the BC Wildfire Information Line at 250-951-4209.

The Evacuation Alert remains in place and Nanaimo Lakes Road and Nanaimo River Road remain closed at South Forks Road. There is no Reception Centre set up at this time, but the RDN's Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) continues to support firefighting operations. In the case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Lacey Lake/Beaufort Range Wildfire

The BC Wildfire Service is responding to a wildfire near Lacey Lake in the Beaufort Range, outside of Cherry Creek and northwest of Port Alberni. This fire is within the RDN boundaries and is estimated to be five hectares in size. Eleven personnel and two helicopters are responding to the fire as well as the Cherry Creek Fire Department.

We will provide updates on both wildfires as they become available. Check our website, Facebook and Twitter for the most up-to-date information.