The Fort Nelson First Nation in northeastern British Columbia has issued a wildfire evacuation order for a remote riverside reserve, telling residents and visitors they must immediately leave by boat.
The First Nation says the order covers the Kahntah Reserve, about 116 kilometres southeast of Fort Nelson. The ordrer also says there is a risk to life and safety in the area, which is a few kilometres south of an out-of-control fire that was discovered on Monday.
The B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) says the blaze, measuring five hectares in size, is believed to have been caused by lightning.
Satellite imagery shows the reserve features a clearing on the bend of the Fontas River with a few buildings and other structures.
The BCWS says it’s also anticipating new wildfire starts in northern regions generally, according to an advisory posted on social media Tuesday. It says this is due to a cold front expected to “sweep across” northern B.C. Wednesday that could bring “strong winds, thunderstorms and the potential for dry lightning.
The province also issued a smoky skies advisory Tuesday for the Fort Nelson region over the expected effect on the Witset area of the Little Oliver Creek fire.