TUMBLER RIDGE — A wildfire burning east of Tumbler Ridge has grown rapidly over the past two days, according to the BC Wildfire Service.
The fire, now named the Sunderman Creek wildfire is burning out of control. It was discovered Thursday along Highway 52 and has expanded to roughly 200 hectares in size, as of Saturday morning.
Officials say the fire’s early growth was driven by strong winds pushing flames east toward the Alberta border, with more active fire behaviour observed Friday along the northeastern flank.
Despite the increase in size, crews say there is still no immediate danger to nearby communities. Fire officials say there are currently no structures at risk.
“There is no threat to communities at this time,” said BC Wildfire Service information officer Jean Strong. “Residents in Tumbler Ridge and Kelly Lake can be reassured that crews have a good handle on this fire.”
Firefighters continue to focus on containment efforts, reinforcing machine guards along the east and northeastern edges of the fire, while aerial resources work to slow its spread.
As of Saturday, five helicopters are assigned to the wildfire, supporting ground crews with water bucket operations. Heavy equipment and multiple initial attack and unit crews are also on scene.
Crews are taking advantage of slightly improved conditions, with the weekend forecast calling for lighter winds and the possibility of precipitation in the Bearhole Lake Park area.
“We’re expecting weather that should work in our favour,” Strong said. “That will allow firefighters to make even more progress over the next few days.”
Highway 52 East remains closed between Thunder Creek Recreation Site and Sunderman Pit due to the fire.
The blaze is burning 15 kilometres south of the southern most point of last year’s Kiskatinaw River Wildfire that grew to 266,000 square kilometres in size.
With the May long weekend underway, officials are also urging people heading into the backcountry to be cautious, noting many spring wildfires are caused by human activity.
“Many of our spring fires are human-caused,” Strong said. “We’re asking people to be mindful of activities that could spark a fire,especially with off-road vehicles or open flames.”
Officials are urging recreationists to ensure off-road vehicles are equipped with spark arrestors, to follow any open burning restrictions, and to avoid parking on dry grass.
The BC Wildfire Service is asking anyone who spots smoke or a new fire to report it immediately by calling *5555 or using the agency’s mobile app.