No significant growth of Parker Lake fire near Fort Nelson

With fire remaining on the landscape near Fort Nelson, while winds did increase on May 19 and drought conditions persist, there was no significant fire growth over the operational period. Structure protection crews continue to assess and triage values further out from the fire.  Fire guards continue to be constructed in strategic areas for both the Parker Lake and Patry Creek wildfires and aviation resources are supporting by bucketing hot spots burning in steep and challenging terrain.

Although the Patry Creek wildfire does not pose an immediate threat to Fort Nelson, conditions can rapidly change and are monitored by BCWS on an ongoing basis.

Highway 97 (Alaska Highway) remains closed north of Fort Nelson, as is Highway 77. Information on Highway closures can be requested at 250-774-6956 and information can be found on DriveBC.  Through-travelers can request Evacuation Area Access Permits at www.northernrockies.ca/accesspermit, but are advised that there are limited to no services available within Fort Nelson, and should be prepared to travel approximately 400 kms between the nearest fuel stations (Buckinghorse River south of Fort Nelson and Toad River, north of Fort Nelson).

EOC Update

The NRRM Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has successfully re-established in Fort Nelson and continues to prepare essential services for re-entry.

While a positive move in terms of community readiness, conditions are not yet cleared for residents’ return due to wildfire and other community safety risks such as limited essential services. Once safe, notification will come from BC Wildfire Service, and re-entry will be communicated through the Voyent Alert system.

Currently, only essential businesses and authorized employees are being granted Evacuation Area Access Permits. The RCMP is patrolling to ensure the security of property, and contacting owners of any concerns. Community re-entry will occur in phases, including EOC return, removal of firefighting defenses, restoration of utilities and services, and support for recovery.

Even when an Evacuation Alert status is declared, vigilance is necessary due to ongoing wildfire risks. We ask that people are patient as this close coordination with BCWS ensures the community’s safety for return.

Please be advised we have been experiencing issues with our Public Information landline (250-774-6121). Please use the 250-775-0933 number for any inquiries.

Media requests for content or interviews can be directed to communications@northernrockies.ca, or (250) 775-0933.

Emergency Support Services

Emergency Support Services will be extended for another 7 days starting Tuesday, May 21, 2024.  We are sharing this update to help residents begin considering the re-entry process. However, please be aware that actual re-entry into community is still several days away at the very least. 

Reception Centre Hours for Tuesday May 21:

• Fort St. John – North Peace Arena (9805 96 Avenue) | 9 am to 7 pm
• Dawson Creek – Sudeten Hall (1901 Alaska Hwy) | 10 am to 4 pm
• Chetwynd – City Hall (5400 Hospital Road) | Hours TBA
• Prince George – PG Exhibition Grounds (41 Keller St) | 10 am to 4:30 pm