A wildfire on southern Vancouver Island continued to burn out of control Thursday, as dry conditions and steep terrain challenge dozens of firefighters battling to contain the blaze. The Mount Jack wildfire north of Sooke has grown to 276 hectares since it was discovered on Sept. 20. Smoke from the fire has blanked B.C.’s capital region and has limited the ability of aircraft to fight the flames due to poor visibility. The B.C. Wildfire Service said the fire grew Wednesday in areas where heavy smoke prevented helicopters from bucketing the flames. Prevailing winds have also pushed the fire eastward. Cooler temperatures and possible precipitation are expected in the area Thursday, conditions the wildfire service says should support suppression efforts. Approximately 60 personnel are currently assigned to the Mount Jack fire. “We are continuing to respond with our ground crews, heavy equipment and aviation resources and we remain well resourced on the fire,” the wildfire service said. “Crews are using a combination of direct and indirect attack methods, determined by fire behaviour, environmental conditions and responder safety.” The fire is believed to have been caused by human activity. The wildfire services said the blaze is not currently a threat to structures or critical infrastructure. “We do ask the public to stay out of the immediate area for their own safety and the safety of our responders,” the agency said. The Capital Regional District has closed portions of trails in the area, including the popular Galloping Goose Regional Trail, as a precaution. Access to Kapoor Regional Park is also restricted, according to a statement from the CRD. “Visitors are asked to keep out of the closure area and avoid accessing the area through other parks and trail networks,” the district said.
