Wesley Ridge Wildfire Rages Unchecked on Vancouver Island, Forcing Hundreds to Evacuate

Vancouver Island (Richa Walia )— A wildfire near Cameron Lake on Vancouver Island continued to burn out of control on Monday, growing to 511 hectares despite efforts by firefighters to contain its spread.

The blaze, now known as the Wesley Ridge fire, was discovered Thursday and is located about 50 kilometres northwest of Nanaimo, B.C., according to the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS). The fire has prompted an evacuation order for 387 homes, with another 235 properties on evacuation alert.

“There was limited growth overnight,” BCWS fire information officer Madison Dahl said at a press conference. She added that 164 personnel, including more than 80 structure protection specialists, are currently battling the blaze alongside eight helicopters and several local fire departments, including Dashwood and Coombs.

Christina Crabtree, director of the emergency operations centre for the Regional District of Nanaimo, confirmed that no structures had been lost so far. However, she stressed the need for continued caution as smoky conditions have limited visibility, delaying more accurate updates on the fire’s size.

Highway 4 remains open between Parksville and Port Alberni, but the B.C. Ministry of Transportation has warned drivers of possible delays and “sudden changes” due to the fire. Traffic control crews remain on standby in case BCWS operations require highway closures or reroutes.

The Wesley Ridge fire is believed to be human-caused, a classification given to any wildfire not sparked by lightning. It is one of 138 active wildfires currently burning across British Columbia.

Amidst the growing crisis, local residents have rallied to support evacuees. Joanne Trofanenko of Courtenay, who owns property in the affected zone, has been coordinating help through a Facebook group in the Comox Valley. From transportation and shelter to pet boarding, nearly 200 people have offered assistance.

“It was a way for me to help and to connect people with resources they might need,” she said. As a retired paramedic, Trofanenko described her property as a refuge — a sentiment she says is shared by many in the community.

In Coombs, Ari Buttenham has offered free towing services to help residents move trailers and other belongings to safety. “We live in a community where everyone cares about everyone,” he said. “It’s emotional because so many people are at risk of losing things they’ve worked hard for.”