Wildfires in Northeast B.C. trigger evacuations, infrastructure damaged

A rapidly intensifying wildfire in northeast B.C. has led to emergency evacuations, disrupted travel, and damaged critical infrastructure, affecting communities including Fort St. John and Tumbler Ridge. As fire activity grows more volatile, officials warn of worsening conditions fueled by rising temperatures and wind.

Fort St. John evacuation ordered as wildfire nears

On Wednesday afternoon, a wildfire near Fort St. John, located in northeastern British Columbia, triggered a localized evacuation order. The fire started near Northern Lights College, prompting officials to swiftly clear nearby homes and properties.


The Peace River Regional District issued the evacuation for specific areas east of the city as flames moved dangerously close. Local authorities stressed the importance of leaving immediately for safety, as fire behavior had become unpredictable. Emergency crews from B.C. Wildfire Service and local departments coordinated efforts to suppress the blaze and manage public safety.

Travel and flight disruptions reported

The Fort St. John wildfire also caused travel interruptions. A key local road was temporarily closed to assist firefighting crews and prevent civilian exposure to dangerous fire conditions. Additionally, flights in and out of Fort St. John Airport were impacted due to reduced visibility and shifting fire lines.

Air traffic controllers issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) limiting aviation activity in the region, while passengers were advised to monitor updates from airlines and local emergency notifications.

Tumbler ridge wildfire damages fibre optic lines

Further south in Tumbler Ridge, a separate wildfire has created serious infrastructure challenges. High winds and persistent flames caused damage to fibre optic lines, interrupting phone and internet services. Residents experienced communication outages, complicating emergency response and evacuation planning.

In addition, Highway 52, a critical route into and out of Tumbler Ridge, was closed intermittently due to proximity to the fire zone. As of Thursday morning, B.C. Wildfire Service continued to monitor the situation and deploy crews to stabilize conditions.

Elevated fire risk as heat and wind intensify

According to B.C. Wildfire Service, the fire risk in the region remains high to extreme, with forecasts predicting hot, dry, and windy weather in the coming days. These factors could contribute to increased fire spread, making containment more difficult and putting additional communities at risk.

Emergency responders are urging residents in northeastern B.C. to stay informed via emergency alerts, municipal websites, and social media channels. People living near active wildfire zones are encouraged to have evacuation plans and grab-and-go kits ready, especially in remote or forested areas.

Public safety remains top priority

As firefighters continue to battle blazes on multiple fronts, public safety remains the top concern. The situation is evolving, and residents in Fort St. John, Tumbler Ridge, and nearby rural areas are urged to follow official guidance.