Officials in two B.C. towns under evacuation orders are advising residents who choose to stay to either leave or limit water usage as firefighters battle nearby wildfires. In Clinton, situated along Highway 97 in the Cariboo region, water levels have dropped significantly following the evacuation order due to the Pear Lake Wildfire. This uncontained wildfire has expanded northwards and combined with the Fiftynine Creek fire, scorching over 630 square kilometers of land.
The Village of Clinton has urged any remaining residents to cease all non-essential outdoor water activities immediately to ensure ample water supply for the local fire department’s efforts in safeguarding critical infrastructure. Additionally, a boil-water notice was issued on Saturday after the village bypassed its treatment system to bolster water flow for firefighting purposes. Clinton had previously moved to Stage 3 water restrictions due to low reservoir levels.
Meanwhile, in Boston Bar, another evacuated community in Fraser Canyon, the water system faced vandalism as wildfires threatened the area. The Fraser Valley Regional District reported that an individual tampered with the water system by opening a valve during the evacuation order, prompting a shutdown to protect infrastructure and conserve water for firefighting operations. The community was already under a boil water notice and Stage 4 water conservation measures due to increased water demand and decreased supply.
The incident raised concerns about potential damage to the water system, with officials emphasizing the need for safety and evacuation compliance. The Brunswick wildfire complex, encompassing multiple fires in the region, has led to evacuation orders affecting hundreds of properties. The B.C. Wildfire Service noted minimal fire activity on Sunday due to cooler weather conditions but highlighted challenges in suppressing the fires, particularly in rugged terrains. Highway 1 remains closed between Spuzzum Creek Road and the Jackass Summit.