According to BC Wildfire Service, a wildfire at Upper Elaho Valley reported on Monday, Aug 12, has seen ‘explosive growth’ and is now burning at 246 hectares. The wildfire was reported on August 12 at approximately 3 pm in the Upper Elaho Valley.
Crews first assessed the fire as burning at five acres, but it has shown aggressive behaviour and explosive growth since Monday. As of now, two Initial Attack crews and a helicopter are deployed to fight the fire, which is listed as Out of Control.
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BC Wildfire Service said it is also working with the Squamish Nation to obtain information on cultural and sensitive sites in the area.
“Squamish People know how important this area is, and the Squamish Nation has made it clear to BCWS that the lands need to be prioritized for protection,” BCWS said.
“Squamish Nation will continue to work with BCWS to provide information that helps support wildfire response in the Territory. The Nation’s administration and Sqomish Forestry are actively collaborating with the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) to protect these sacred areas.”
BC Wildfire Service has also committed crews and aviation resources to protect the cultural sites on the fire’s north flank. Meanwhile, SLRD has issued an Evacuation Alert due to the Birkenhead Lake wildfire, which is burning out of control near Birkenhead Lake Estates and Blackwater Road.