Sayward wildfire remains at 160 hectares, suppression making ‘good progress’

Sayward wildfire remains at 160 hectares, suppression making 'good progress'
BC Wildfire Service
There are 60 firefighters assigned to the fire outside of Sayward.

The out-of-control wildfire outside Sayward remains at 160 hectares as crews continue fire suppression efforts.

The BC Wildfire Service says there are no evacuation alerts recommended at this time, on the third day since the fire was discovered.

“The BC Wildfire Service is making good progress on the Newcastle Creek Fire,” the information page for the fire outside Sayward says, noting there are 60 firefighters assigned to the fire with the support of two helicopters.

“Fire crews are meeting their objectives and are not anticipating any problems. Crews supported by helicopters will continue to action the fire on accessible flanks with the help of natural barriers.”

The fire is suspected to be human-caused.

Looking to the forecast, weather is expected to remain about the same with no precipitation in the near forecast, according to Environment Canada.

The fire danger rating for almost all of Vancouver Island is set to high risk, with two small pockets of moderate risk on the mid-Island.

“Forest fuels are very dry and the fire risk is serious,” the B.C. government says about a high fire danger rating. “New fires may start easily, burn vigorously, and challenge fire suppression efforts. Extreme caution must be used in any forest activities. Open burning and industrial activities may be restricted.”

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Laura BroughamLaura Brougham

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