CHETWYND -- Officials with the District of Chetwynd are assuring residents that everything possible is being done to protect lives, homes and other structures in the area.
The Peace River Regional District has declared a state of local emergency due to a wildfire burning out of control near Chetwynd.
The Wildmare Creek wildfire exploded in size to 76 hectares in size. It had been moving directly towards Chetwynd, however overnight, the movement of the fire stalled and hasn't grown since late Wednesday evening.
Deputy Mayor Julia Nelson said over 100 people are working hard on containing the fire.
"Everybody is working so very hard keeping residents safe. The update that I have is that there has been no structural damage, no loss of life. And truly, it looks like the professionals who are doing their jobs are doing an excellent job," said Nelson
An Evacuation Order was issued for the Pine River area. It has since been downgraded to an Evacuation Alert.That means residents must be ready to leave at a moments notice.
An Evacuation Alert is in place for the Wildmare and surrounding areas has been cancelled.
For those who have been evacuated and are looking for Emergency Support Services (ESS), they can head to the Chetwynd Municipal Offices located at 5400 Hospital Road
A 10-kilometre stretch of Highway 97 has re-opened to single alternating traffic.
