British Columbia, Aug 1, 2025 (Richa Walia) — British Columbia is in the grip of a surging wildfire crisis as the number of active fires doubled from 60 to 120 within just 24 hours, fuelled by more than 13,000 lightning strikes, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS). Authorities warn more lightning could further escalate the situation.
The fires, spread across various regions, have prompted evacuation orders and alerts, threatened communities, and stretched firefighting resources. Several of the major fires are believed to be human-caused, intensifying calls for public caution and accountability.
Wesley Ridge Fire (Vancouver Island)
The most concerning blaze is the Wesley Ridge fire, which has grown from 60 to 90 hectares and is now classified as out of control. Located northwest of Nanaimo, it has forced an evacuation order for areas near Cameron Lake, including Chalet Road and Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. An evacuation alert is also in place for nearly 300 properties in Little Qualicum River Village. The fire is suspected to be human-caused. While Highway 4 remains open, officials advise residents to monitor DriveBC for real-time updates.
Drought Hill Fire (Between Peachland and Kelowna)
In the Okanagan region, the Drought Hill fire, now burning about 57 hectares, has been downgraded from out of control to being held. Located two kilometres north of Peachland, the fire had earlier forced evacuations of 400 homes, 280 of which were reduced to alert status. Favorable conditions may allow more evacuation orders to be lifted soon. Firefighting crews from Peachland, Kelowna, and North Westside are assisting the BCWS. The cause is suspected to be human-related.
Cantilever Bar Fire (Near Lytton)
South of Lytton, the Cantilever Bar fire has grown to a massive 1,262 hectares. Two properties on Lytton First Nation land are under evacuation as the fire continues to display vigorous surface activity with visible flames and fast spread. A force of 77 wildland firefighters and five helicopters is working to contain the blaze, which is also believed to be human-caused.
Bear Creek Fire (Harrison Hot Springs)
Near Harrison Lake, the Bear Creek fire is burning out of control across 124 hectares, prompting an evacuation alert for North Cascade Bay. The area is now hazardous due to rockfall and fire spread. Access along Harrison East Forest Road has been restricted, with only southbound evacuation traffic permitted. The fire is suspected to be human-caused.
Pitt Meadows Fire
In Pitt Meadows, a much smaller fire has been contained at 0.1 hectares, but still prompted precautionary evacuations of two homes. There are no reported injuries, and local fire services with BCWS support have taken control. The cause remains under investigation.
With the wildfire season intensifying rapidly, officials are urging residents across British Columbia to remain vigilant, prepare for possible evacuations, and avoid any activity that could spark further fires.
