A pair of wildfires burning north of Clinton, British Columbia, have merged into a single massive blaze now covering nearly 670 square kilometres, triggering evacuation orders for dozens of properties. The fast-moving fire, fueled by weeks of dry weather and gusty winds, has become one of the largest active wildfires in the province this season.
The merged fire, officially designated as the Flat Lake complex, forced the Cariboo Regional District to issue evacuation orders for multiple rural properties on Tuesday. Officials say the flames are burning through dense forest and grassland, making containment challenging. More than 200 firefighters are on scene, supported by helicopters and air tankers, as crews attempt to build containment lines along the fire's eastern and southern flanks.
The cause of the fires remains under investigation, but experts point to a combination of drought conditions and record-breaking heat in interior British Columbia. The province has seen 40 percent less rainfall than average this spring, leaving forests tinder-dry. Wind gusts of up to 40 kilometres per hour have pushed the flames in multiple directions, complicating response efforts.
Residents in the affected area say they had little time to prepare. About 150 properties are under evacuation order, affecting an estimated 300 people. Emergency social services have set up a reception centre in Clinton to assist evacuees. The Thompson-Nicola Regional District has also issued an evacuation alert for additional areas, warning residents to be ready to leave at short notice.
Environmental groups have renewed calls for more aggressive forest management and climate adaptation measures. Meanwhile, the BC Wildfire Service says it is focusing on protecting structures and critical infrastructure, including power lines and highways. The fire has closed a section of Highway 97 near Clinton, diverting traffic.
Forecasters expect cooler temperatures and possible rain over the weekend, which could assist firefighters. However, shifting winds might also carry smoke into populated areas, posing air quality risks. The province has moved to a Level 4 preparedness status, its highest, signaling that resources are stretched.
The situation remains fluid. Officials emphasize that residents in alerted zones should have go-bags ready and monitor local alerts. The fire is a stark reminder of the growing wildfire threat in Western Canada as fire seasons start earlier and last longer due to climate change.