Out-of-Control Wildfire Forces Evacuations Near Lytton, B.C. as Community Relives Past Trauma
Dozens of residents have been forced to evacuate as an aggressive wildfire continues to spread near Lytton, British Columbia, a community still rebuilding from the catastrophic blaze of 2021.
The Saw Creek wildfire was first detected on Friday approximately three kilometres south of the village. Since then, it has expanded rapidly to an estimated six square kilometres, prompting urgent response efforts from firefighting crews, including aerial water-bombing operations.
By Saturday, evacuation orders were in effect for around 60 properties, while roughly 170 additional addresses remained on alert. Officials have warned residents in nearby areas to be prepared to leave immediately if conditions worsen.
The fire has also led to the closure of a 116-kilometre stretch of Highway 1 between Boston Bar and Cache Creek, significantly disrupting regional travel and emergency access.
Witnesses reported seeing the blaze in its early stages, with smoke rising rapidly and flames spreading unpredictably across vegetation and nearby structures. Some residents described the fire as “jumping” between areas, raising concerns about its fast-moving behavior.
Local authorities confirmed that evacuation centres have been set up in Kamloops, where displaced residents are being supported. Officials have assured that evacuees are safe, though the situation remains unstable.
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District said the fire likely began near a roadside area close to a residence before spreading quickly under hot and dry conditions. Power outages have also been reported, affecting more than 100 customers, and a boil-water advisory has been issued for Lytton.
Emergency officials expressed concern about the emotional toll on the community, which is still recovering from the 2021 wildfire that destroyed much of the village and claimed lives.
As firefighters continue to battle the blaze, authorities warn that ongoing dry conditions and high temperatures could further fuel the fire’s spread in the coming days.
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