Progress in fighting the Cameron Bluffs wildfire means it is no longer considered a wildfire of note, and the reopening of Highway 4 remains on schedule.
The wildfire is now under control, which means it is not expected to spread due to the suppression efforts.
“BC Wildfire crews are continuing to patrol the fire and extinguish hotspots on the accessible terrain,” said Kimberly Kelly, fire information officer with Coastal Fire Centre in an interview with CHEK News.
“Today it is being actioned by 54 personnel, one helicopter and one water tender.”
And with that, the B.C. government says work in reopening the highway to single-lane alternating traffic is on schedule for this weekend.
The affected stretch of the highway, which was closed due to the Cameron Bluffs wildfire, has been cleared of fallen trees and debris, and temporary safety measures including a concrete barrier in the eastbound lane and protective mesh curtains are being installed.
The detour remains fully open, and Telus has installed a mobile cell tower at the midpoint with an approximately one-kilometre reception range.
To clear the highway, there are 32 pieces of equipment including four cranes and two excavators with 50 people working on the site.
Highway 4 has been closed since June 6.
Newcastle Creek and Anutz Lake wildfires being held
Newcastle Creek fire, west of Sayward, remains as being held and there are 40 personnel and one helicopter responding. This fire is estimated to be 230 hectares.
Crews are on the ground in the “workable” sections monitoring for hot spots, according to Kelly.
Kelly says the fire is in steep and challenging terrain, which is why there are aviation resources helping to respond.
Anutz Lake fire, which is south of Nimpkish Lake, is also being held and is estimated at 7.9 hectares.
There are 35 personnel responding supported by one water tender.
Laura Brougham
