NANAIMO — The number of people out of their homes has increased as a fire in the hills above Cameron Lake continues to burn.
BC Wildfire Service personnel, supported by local volunteer firefighters, continue to battle the Wesley Ridge wildfire, burning on the northern side of Cameron Lake since it was discovered Thursday, July 31.
The fire grew to 125 hectares in size by Friday, Aug. 1, with new evacuation orders in place for properties in Little Qualicum River Village, northeast of the fire.
Ordered from their homes Friday night were residents along Klein Ridge Rd., Wallace Wood Way, Toms Turn-Around, Paul’s Place and Warn Way.
Those residents affected are being invited to a reception area setup at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre.
Other Meadowood residents remain under evacuation alerts and must be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice.
Also under evacuation alert are those in Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park and the campground and day use areas.
A complete list of addresses and areas affected is available here.
Over 75 firefighting resources were assigned to the fire on Friday, including structural protection crews assigned on the northeastern flank to prevent spread toward homes.
Helicopters, air tankers and more operated in the air all day, with some remaining overnight as well.
It’s hoped cooler weather over the coming days and early morning dew will continue to aid efforts in extinguishing the fire.
Rain is in the forecast for the region on Tuesday.
Subscribe to our daily news wrap. Local news delivered to your email inbox every evening. Stay up to date on everything Nanaimo and Oceanside.
info@nanaimonewsnow.com
Follow us on: Twitter (X) | Bluesky | Facebook
