The west flank of the Parker Lake fire near Fort Nelson, B.C., is pictured on May 13. (B.C. Wildfire Service)
Authorities have confirmed substantial damage, including destruction of homes, due to a wildfire west of Fort Nelson, B.C., which persisted through Sunday. The Parker Lake fire, originating from a tree striking a power line on May 10, has resulted in the destruction of four homes among ten affected properties, as stated by Rob Fraser, Mayor of the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (NRRM), during an update on Saturday.
Fraser described the process of contacting impacted property owners as one of the most challenging tasks in his career, highlighting that not all six remaining damaged properties were homes, with some being sheds and workshops.
Covering an area of approximately 123 square kilometres, the Parker Lake fire prompted the evacuation of over 4,700 individuals from Fort Nelson and the nearby Fort Nelson First Nation. Despite evacuation orders, photos and videos circulated online by residents who remained in the area depicted damaged properties near the fire's origin along the highway outside Fort Nelson.
Fraser expressed dismay towards residents sharing videos of the damage, emphasizing ongoing efforts to confirm damage extents and directly communicate with property owners. He acknowledged the challenge in reaching all property owners but condemned the insensitivity of sharing such footage on social media platforms.
B.C.'s emergency management minister, Bowinn Ma, confirmed building damage on Friday but noted no recent reports of additional structure loss since the fire's onset.
On Sunday, the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) reported that forest conditions around the wildfire had dried up, potentially increasing fire behaviour, though overall firefighting conditions remained favorable. BCWS crews focused efforts on setting up direct control lines in the northwest corner of the fire.
Although expecting cooler conditions in the coming days, BCWS cautioned against significant fire behavior changes due to dry weather, while monitoring areas of potential heat concentration.
The Patry Creek wildfire, located approximately 25 km north of Fort Nelson, does not currently pose an immediate threat but remains subject to rapid condition changes, depending on wind and weather.
As officials prepare for residents' return, essential services are being readied in Fort Nelson. However, no clear timeline for community re-entry has been provided, with highway closures still in effect due to wildfires. Residents can apply for permits to re-enter the town for livestock feeding or critical infrastructure maintenance, with phased re-entry planned to ensure safety and suitability.
