Much of Metro Vancouver has seen the hazy skies, with the Interior seeing the fires up close. The wildfires have become so bad that multiple major B.C. roads have closed down.

If you’re planning to head out this weekend, you’ll definitely want to know which roads to and not take.

B.C. ROAD CLOSURES

On September 3, DriveBC posted on X that the Coquihalla Highway– Highway 5– that runs between Hope and Meritt is closed due to wildfire activity, particularly because of the Mine Creek wildfire. BC Wildfire Service denotes the fire as “Out of Control”, with two evacuation alerts and one evacuation order for certain residents of Mine Creek.

As of September 4, the wildfire spans approximately 1,900 hectares. It is believed to have been caused by a lightning strike.

The Coquihalla Highway currently has no estimated time of reopening. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes via Highway 1 or Highway 3. Additionally, commercial vehicles are instructed not to use Highway 8.

Other road closures include Highway 20 between Eagle Lake Road and Pyper Lake Road due to the ongoing Beef Trail Creek wildfire. This fire is also classified as Out of Control with two evacuation orders– as well as being potentially caused by a lightning strike.

Bamfield Road, which runs between Bamfield and Port Alberni, is also closed. Only essential travel is permitted toward Bamfield.

WILDFIRE SEASON

Within just five days, B.C. has seen 6,047 lightning strikes, adding onto the growing wildfire situation across the province. And due to the continuous burning, the smoke has resulted in Vancouver having the worst air quality in the world

BC Wildfire service notes that there are 152 active wildfires throughout B.C., with 9 having started within the last 24 hours.

As wildfire season continues, expect hazy and smoky conditions, as well as possibly more B.C. road closures. To minimize smoke inhalation, avoid being outside for long periods of time, especially if you have medical conditions that affect your breathing.

Source: 604NOW