Image: Supplied by B.C. Wildfire Service / This is a view looking south at the Flood Falls Trail fire that is approximately 42-45 kilometres east of downtown Chilliwack, and about 7 kilometres west of Hope.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Hope fire

Fire near Hope has spread to near exit 160, Hunter Creek Rd. and St. Elmo Road, as evacuation alert extends to Laidlaw

Sep 10, 2022 | 8:19 PM

FLOOD HOPE — The Flood Falls Trail fire has now expanded westward to near Exit 160 along Highway 1, the Hunter Creek Road and St. Elmo Road exit, as smoky skies smother Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley with hazardous air quality conditions.

At last count, BCWS says the fire has now grown to 271 hectares, according to an update posted Saturday night, Sept. 10 at 8:20 p.m.

Drive B.C. is also reminding motorists to avoid stopping on Highway 1 to snap pictures of the fire between Exit 160, Hunter Creek Road, and exit 170, the off-ramp leading to downtown Hope.

On Saturday evening, pursuant to the B.C. Emergency Program Act, and on the recommendation of the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS), an evacuation alert has been issued by the Fraser Valley Regional District.

Because of the potential danger to life, safety and health caused by the Flood Falls Trail wildfire, FVRD has issued this evacuation alert for properties east of Highway 1 in Laidlaw, FVRD Electoral Area B.

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The alert expands the initial evacuation alert jointly issued by the District of Hope and FVRD on Friday, Sept. 9.

According to the FVRD evacuation alert memorandum found on its website, “prevailing winds have pushed the Flood Falls Trail wildfire to the west, increasing risk to the Laidlaw community. This alert is a precautionary measure to ensure Laidlaw residents are aware of the fire risk and are prepared for evacuation if it becomes necessary.”

There is currently no threat to critical infrastructure or homes, FVRD says. There is pipeline construction infrastructure in the vicinity which has not been impacted, it added.

The FVRD Regional Airpark (CYHE) near Hope has been closed to recreational flights. BCWS is using the airpark for their operations.

Residents in Eastern Hillsides of Chilliwack, close to Exit 129 (Annis Road), were reporting the presence of ash in the air Saturday night on social media.

by Mike Vanden Bosch

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Fire near Hope has spread to near exit 160, Hunter Creek Rd. and St. Elmo Road, as evacuation alert extends to Laidlaw

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