PARKSVILLE — Flames continue to burn in the hills above Cameron Lake.
Crews from the Coastal Fire Centre, supported by volunteer firefighters from both the Coombs and Dashwood Fire Departments, continue to action a wildfire on the northern shores, which was reported just after midnight on Thursday, July 31.
Continuing to burn out of control, according to the BC Wildfire Service, the Wesley Ridge fire grew to 90 hectares overnight and is believed to be human caused.
Multiple BC Wildfire Service officers are on site again on Friday, Aug. 1, complemented by four attack crews, helicopters, skimmers and an air tanker.
Smoke can be seen from across much of central Vancouver Island from the Wesley Ridge fire, burning since early Thursday morning. (BC Wildfire Service)Air support worked the scene until past 10 p.m. on Thursday, with helicopters returning Friday morning.
Crews on scene have said the fire is difficult to battle given the steep terrain.
Evacuation orders by the Regional District of Nanaimo remain in place for properties along the northern shores of Cameron Lake, while a select number of homes northeast of the fire are under evacuation alert.
Those residents have been instructed to prepare to leave on short notice, and ensure go-bags are packed with essential items including important documents, medications and personal items.
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