A cluster of wildfires continue to burn 74 kilometres north of Tumbler Ridge. Three of the fires have now merged into one blaze that’s listed at 185 hectares in size.
The fire is still burning out of control near Highway 52N. The two remaining wildfires are now listed as being held.
The BC Wildfire Service said fire activity had increased on Friday due to warm, dry and windy conditions.
Ground crews and heavy equipment are 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.
Five separate wildfires broke out Wednesday afternoon before merging into 3 fires, all of which are thought to be human caused.