TNRD orders evacuation of one property as French Bar Creek wildfire grows

“The emergency powers are used to order of evacuation of residents from their homes, prohibit travel, and/ or enter private property when an emergency threatens lives, property, or the environment within the TNRD’s jurisdiction.”

The French Bar Cheek fire is an estimated 12.5 square kilometres in size and its crossed over into the Cariboo Fire Centre. It is burning upslope in steep and rocky terrain in fuels that are a mix of grassland in areas near the Fraser River and timber in upslope and plateau areas.

“The terrain, availability of water and access to the fire are posing challenges for responders,” a statement from the BC Wildfire Service said.

The fire was sparked on July 4, but a cause is still not yet known, according to the BC Wildfire Service.

There are 51 firefighters, 10 helicopters and two pieces of heavy equipment responding to the fire, which was burning rank 4 and 5 – a highly to extremely vigorous surface fire with some active crown fire – on the northwest flank.

“Firefighters are focusing their direct attack efforts along accessible flanks on the west and northwest sides of the fire, continuing control line development and suppression along the fire’s edge,” added the BC Wildfire Service statement.

“Crews also continue to establish access to the north of the fire, as well as sites for water sources and for helicopters. Helicopters are being used to bucket water on the fire, focusing on the north flank and any flare ups. They are also providing water for crews and transporting personnel and gear.”

by Elora McCormack

TNRD orders evacuation of one property as French Bar Creek wildfire grows

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