By Canadian Press

Wildfire looming over Squamish, B.C., quadruples in size

Jun 11, 2025 | 10:25 AM

SQUAMISH — An out-of-control wildfire threatening neighbourhoods in Squamish, B.C., has quadrupled in size as wildfire crews and local firefighters battle the blaze that’s looming over the community.

The rapid growth to more than 20 hectares comes after the District of Squamish declared a local state of emergency on Tuesday, saying “co-ordinated and aggressive” firefighting efforts by air and ground were underway.

The declaration signed by Mayor Armand Hurford says the wildfire is threatening the neighbourhoods of Brackendale, Tantalus Road and Skyridge in the community about 60 kilometres north of Vancouver.

No evacuations have been ordered, but residents have been told to get ready to leave at short notice as firefighters work to protect homes and critical infrastructure.

The wildfire service says in an update Wednesday that two helicopters are helping battle the Dryden Creek blaze, which is visible from the Sea to Sky Highway and is believed to have been human caused.

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The Squamish fire is one of more than 93 wildfires burning throughout B.C., most of which are situated in the province’s northeast.

British Columbia has so far been spared the worst of Canada’s wildfires that have forced thousands from their homes in the Prairies, but the blaze close to the outdoor sports community is a reminder that it’s early in the season.

More than 10,000 were forced out of their homes due to a string of wildfires in Saskatchewan’s north, and Premier Scott Moe on Wednesday promised $500 in direct aid payment per person.

Most evacuees are from the Pelican Narrows and the La Ronge area, and those residents are either going back now or have been cleared to return later this week.

Environment Canada meanwhile issued special air quality statements due to wildfire smoke in British Columbia covering Fort Nelson, Peace River, Williston and Stikine River and Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park, Howe Sound, and Inland Vancouver Island.

It says in Wednesday’s posting that the smoke is causing or is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility for the next 24 to 48 hours.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 11, 2025.

The Canadian Press