B.C. Wildfires Destroy Homes, Force Evacuations

Officials in British Columbia confirmed that structures on about 20 properties have been damaged or destroyed by the Fiftynine Creek wildfire burning near Clinton. Kevin Skrepnek, director of emergency operations for the Thompson-Nicola Regional District, said the damage ranges from melted siding to complete destruction of buildings, including homes. The fire, now estimated at over 108 square kilometres (11,000 hectares), forced an expansion of evacuation orders and alerts on Thursday.

In the Fraser Canyon, the Brunswick Creek Complex of three massive fires has burned tens of thousands of hectares, destroying at least seven structures. Tami Dalpadado, a farm owner in North Bend, told Global News she had minutes to evacuate, leaving her farm animals behind. Her home survived, but outbuildings and equipment burned. Fire information officer Gordon Robinson said fire behaviour is too high for direct attack, so crews focus on structural protection.

The Fiftynine Creek fire ignited last Friday and grew rapidly, catching many residents off guard. Colton Davies of the Thompson Nicola Regional District said the fire came up so fast that many had no time to prepare. The B.C. Wildfire Service reported challenging hot and dry conditions, with further growth expected. Crews are trying to hold the fire south of Big Bar Road, while helicopters assist in slowing the spread.

The wildfires are disrupting travel, with Highway 1 closed through the Fraser Canyon and Highway 3 shut down through Manning Park. The entire city of Kimberley (population 8,000) remains under evacuation alert due to a nearby complex of fires. Authorities urge residents in Boston Bar to evacuate as fires surround the community. The situation remains dynamic, with more damage possible in the coming days.