Wildfire looming over Squamish, B.C., gets within 40 metres of homes

The fire chief in Squamish, B.C., says an out-of-control wildfire threatening neighbourhoods is within 40 metres of some homes as debris from burning trees falls near properties.

Aaron Foote, chief of Squamish Fire Rescue, says debris has been rolling down steep hillsides as local firefighters battle the blaze that's looming over the community, next to the Sea to Sky Highway.

The Dryden Creek blaze was five hectares on Tuesday when the District of Squamish declared a local state of emergency and it has grown to more than 20 hectares, but Foote says the overnight growth was "minimal."

Foote told a briefing that five helicopters are helping fight the fire, and that sprinklers have been set up to protect homes that are closest to the flames.

The emergency declaration signed by Mayor Armand Hurford says the wildfire is threatening the neighbourhoods of Brackendale, Tantalus Road and Skyridge in the community about 60 kilometres north of Vancouver. 

No evacuations have been ordered, but residents have been told to get ready to leave on short notice as firefighters work to protect homes and critical infrastructure.

The fire is highly visible from the Sea to Sky Highway and is believed to have been human caused.

The Squamish fire is one of more than 93 wildfires burning throughout B.C., most of which are situated in the province's northeast.

British Columbia has so far been spared the worst of Canada's wildfires that have forced thousands from their homes in the Prairies, but the blaze close to the outdoor sports community is a reminder that it's early in the season.

More than 10,000 people have been forced out of their homes due to a string of wildfires in Saskatchewan’s north, and Premier Scott Moe on Wednesday promised $500 in direct aid payment per person.

Most evacuees are from the Pelican Narrows and the La Ronge area, and those residents are either going back now or have been cleared to return later this week.

Environment Canada meanwhile issued special air quality statements due to wildfire smoke in British Columbia covering Fort Nelson, Peace River, Williston and Stikine River and Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park, Howe Sound, and Inland Vancouver Island.

It says in Wednesday's posting that the smoke is causing or is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility for the next 24 to 48 hours. 

Picture Courtesy: THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Tijana Martin