4 homes lost due to wildfire near Fort Nelson, B.C.
CTV
A wildfire burning near Fort Nelson, B.C., completely destroyed four homes and damaged six more properties, according to an update from the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality.
A wildfire burning near Fort Nelson, B.C., completely destroyed four homes and damaged six more properties, according to an update from the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality.
Amid more favourable weather conditions on Saturday, the emergency operations centre was able to complete a structural damage assessment and contact property owners impacted by the Parker Lake wildfire.
"Approximately 200 homes currently have structural protection measures in place, with more than a dozen helicopters and two dozen pieces of heavy equipment in place," the update also said
Earlier this week the mayor confirmed there had been “some structural damage” outside of Fort Nelson, but did not say how many homes or properties were impacted. Rob Fraser also urged people not to share photos or video of destroyed or damaged properties, saying it was “unconscionable” for people to learn of their losses through social media posts.
The official update on structural damage comes as plans for people to return to the community progress, including allowing some access for those who provide essential services.
“Despite drought conditions posing problems in the area, favorable weather is anticipated including a forecast of some rain, providing a window for progress. Continuous monitoring of the fire is crucial to support the community re-entry process, with fire behavior not expecting any significant growth,” an update from the NRRM Saturday evening said.
The evacuation order remains in place, impacting roughly 4,700 people.