B.C. wildfires force hundreds from homes, thousands more on evacuation alert

Officials are touting the use of a drone as a Canadian first, saying the technology was recently used to help fight a wildfire that forced evacuations.

Approximately 34,000 lightning strikes in recent days have propelled the wildfire season in British Columbia to a new level of intensity.

As of Tuesday afternoon, 86 fires were burning across the province, including 33 classified as out of control.

A total of 16 evacuation orders have displaced people from about 600 properties, mostly in the Fraser Canyon near Boston Bar.

More than 5,700 other properties remain on evacuation alert, including the entire community of Kimberly which is home to about 8,000 residents.

“To those that have been evacuated from their homes or who are preparing to evacuate if conditions change. My heart is with you,” said Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Kelly Greene.

“These are not easy circumstances, and I know how difficult the uncertainty can be. But you are not alone. The province is here to help you and your loved ones get the support you need.”

At a Tuesday morning news conference to provide a provincial wildfire update, Greene said the province is currently assisting about 430 evacuees with accommodation, food, clothing and other essentials.

She said people under evacuation order can receive emergency funds from the province via e-transfer including a $200-per-night accommodation allowance.

She encouraged those under orders and alerts due to the fires to register with the province in order to access those benefits.

United Way British Columbia has also launched a province-wide campaign to solicit donations to help communities, families and others impacted by the fires.

“Whether that’s gas cards, support with food, help taking care of their kids—the United Way can activate the social sector and the charities in those communities to ensure that they have what they need to support those in crisis,” said Kristi Rintoul, the organization’s director of community impact.

She encouraged people interested in donating to visit a dedicated website set up by the non-profit for its United for BC Wildfire Recovery Fund.