The Brunswick complex wildfires in British Columbia expanded significantly on Tuesday, forcing new evacuation orders and shutting down a major highway.
Highway 1 was closed at Boston Bar as the Brunswick Creek wildfire grew to an estimated 1,800 hectares.
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The nearby Ainslie Creek blaze reached 695 hectares.
Evacuation orders were issued for Canyon Alpine, while previous orders for North Bend and the Boothroyd Indian Band remain in effect.
An emergency support center was established at Shxwhá:y Village in Chilliwack to assist displaced residents.
Firefighting Response
A dedicated incident management team, along with 160 firefighters, 12 helicopters, and 23 pieces of heavy equipment, has been deployed to combat the blazes.
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The BC Wildfire Service reported that hot, dry weather and high winds severely elevated fire behavior and accelerated its expansion.
"Wind and elevated fire behaviour are anticipated into this evening. Growth was mainly to the north and east based on prevailing winds," stated the BC Wildfire Service.
The fires are suspected to be human-caused.
Air Quality Alerts
Environment Canada issued air quality advisories for Kamloops, Ashcroft, and 70 Mile House due to thick smoke and reduced visibility.
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Weather forecasters expect cooler temperatures later in the week, though no precipitation is anticipated to aid firefighting efforts.
