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Fire in Northern West Kootenay Causes Evacuation Order
A helicopter rescued the trapped group after wind-driven fire growth pushed the blaze into steep terrain and made most areas unsafe for crews.
On Monday, August 17, four people and two pets were safely airlifted by helicopter from the Johnson Creek wildfire near Beaton after becoming trapped. Fire Chief Steven DeRousie credited strong coordination between local emergency personnel and the BC Wildfire Service for the successful rescue.
The City of Revelstoke issued the evacuation order on Saturday, August 15, for five properties along the Incomappleux Forest Service Road and Fish River Road. The wildfire, sparked by lightning on July 19, has burned 266.52 hectares in the region.
Falling trees and rolling debris have made most areas unsafe for firefighting personnel, limiting direct suppression efforts. Southeast Fire Centre spokesperson Alexander Robinson said crews established sprinkler and control lines to contain the fire as it moved into steep, inoperable terrain.
Residents and visitors must avoid the evacuation order area and its vicinity as the order remains active. Officials advise those within the zone to contact Emergency Support Services at 250-814-9547, lock homes, and monitor official updates.
Warmer, drier weather conditions could increase fire activity and smoke impacts in the coming days. Officials continue to monitor the blaze closely, with the City of Revelstoke providing regular updates to the public regarding the ongoing wildfire situation.