A wildfire near Lytton now spans 1,426 hectares. Crews fight to contain it as evacuation orders and smoke alerts increase across the region.
A Growing Threat Near Lytton
A wildfire burning just 10 kilometres southwest of Lytton, BC, is keeping firefighting crews on high alert. Known as the Cantilever Bar Fire, the blaze has expanded to 1,426 hectares—but before you picture a raging inferno, here’s the key: much of that growth came from better mapping, not just flames.
The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) updated the fire’s size as of Sunday, August 3. Although the fire did spread slightly over the weekend, officials say it’s mainly because they’ve now got a more accurate read on its perimeter.
Suspected Human Cause & Evacuations
This fire, discovered on Monday, July 28, is suspected to be human-caused. It’s burning on the west side of the Fraser River, affecting nearby Indigenous communities.
Here’s what’s happening on the ground:
- Evacuation orders are active for two properties in the Lytton First Nation area.
- Evacuation alerts have been issued by:
- Skuppah First Nation
- Siska First Nation
- Thompson-Nicola Regional District
So far, residents are staying vigilant—and ready to move at a moment’s notice.
Fire Behaviour & Conditions
Now, about the fire’s behaviour. It’s currently showing Rank 2 activity—a low-intensity surface fire. However, in some areas, Rank 3 behaviour is flaring up, meaning occasional torching in trees. That might not sound dramatic, but under the right conditions, it could escalate.
As temperatures soared to 39°C last week, the dry fuels around Lytton became a firestarter’s dream. Luckily, a slight cool-down over the weekend and 27% humidity have slowed things—at least for now.
Still, the blaze continues to creep upslope to the west and north, pushed by sun and terrain.
Response on the Ground & in the Air
Crews aren’t waiting for this fire to grow. Here’s who’s battling the blaze:
- 77 wildland firefighters
- 14 structure protection personnel
- 7 helicopters
- 3 pieces of heavy equipment
And they’ve got a strategy: mix direct and indirect attack methods, use hand ignitions to guide the fire, and tie suppression work into roads and natural features to hold the eastern flank.
The goal? Stop the fire before it threatens homes or infrastructure.
Helicopters are also playing a major role—dropping water, moving equipment, and scouting hot spots from above.
Smoke on the Highways: Drive Safe
Drivers along Highways 1 and 12 may have already noticed thick smoke blanketing the view. While both roads remain open, authorities are urging drivers to:
- Slow down
- Stay alert
- Be mindful of first responders and conditions
What’s Next?
With the fire still active and crews fully engaged, conditions could shift quickly. For now, the Cantilever Bar wildfire isn’t an immediate threat to Lytton’s core—but with weather, wind, and terrain all playing a role, it’s a situation that remains under careful watch.
Stay tuned, stay informed, and if you’re in the area—stay prepared.
