A wildfire broke out west of Nanaimo on a hot summer day.
B.C. Wildfire Service reported that a three-hectare fire was burning out of control close to Nanaimo River Road, west of Nanaimo River Canyon Community Park. The fire started in the late afternoon on Monday, July 21, and classified as being held on Tuesday, July 22.
The wildfire service posted on social media that it responded with an initial attack crew and helicopters, air tankers and a water tender.
The fire was classified as a ‘Rank 2’ ground fire with open flame, and is suspected to be human-caused.
“While there is a B.C. Hydro line and homes in the general area, the fire is not a threat to any structures or critical infrastructure at this time,” the wildfire service noted.
Nanaimo River Road was closed in both directions west of South Forks Road as of press time.
Extension Fire Department posted on social media late Monday night that it had been on scene since the fire was reported, and was receiving support from Cranberry Fire Department as well as the B.C. Wildfire Service.
“We’re proud of the excellent turnout from our Extension firefighters, who will continue actioning the fire until nightfall. Thank you to all crews working hard in the heat to contain this blaze,” the department posted.
