A cluster of wildfires continue to burn 74 kilometres north of Tumbler Ridge. Three of the fires have merged into one blaze that grew to 265 hectares in size.
Five fires near Highway 52N started on Wednesday. All three remaining wildfires are now listed as being under control.
The BC Wildfire Service said fire activity had increased on Friday due to warm, dry and windy conditions. All of the fires are thought to be human caused.
Ground crews and heavy equipment were working to prevent the fire from crossing the highway, while helicopters and airtankers are fighting the blaze from the sky.
“Crews are actively working to contain the fire and reduce the risk of spot fires, especially with the aid of overnight ignition operations to bring the fire perimeter to the highway in a controlled manner, reducing the risk of uncontrolled growth across Highway 52,” said the Wildfire Service.
Highway 52N was closed in both directions on Thursday. It has since re-opened to single lane alternating traffic. A pilot car is guiding motorists through the affected area.
The fire also destroyed a fibre optic cable. Communication has since been restored to the RCMP detachment and district offices.
Another fire started on Friday, south of Tumbler Ridge. It grew to 26 hectares in size near Mast Creek Road, before being held.