New Evacuation Order Expands Smokey Lake Fire Impact
The number of Williams Lake evacuees is rising quickly after a new wildfire evacuation order was issued on Sept. 7. The Cariboo Regional District confirmed that 85 parcels, including 42 structures, are now under mandatory evacuation.
Covering more than 67,000 hectares, the Smokey Lake Fire Area stretches into Tatla Lake, a small community located 220 km west of Williams Lake. Residents are being urged to leave immediately due to imminent risk to life and property.
Evacuation Routes and Safety Measures
Officials have directed residents to travel east on Highway 20 toward Williams Lake. However, Highway 20 west remains closed for nearly 70 km because of fire activity between Firvale and Anahim Lake.
RCMP, alongside local authorities, are assisting with safe and rapid evacuations. Those affected are strongly encouraged to pre-register through the BC Services app to streamline access to shelter and emergency funds.
Emergency Services Ready to Support Evacuees
Williams Lake has set up a reception centre at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex (CMRC). There, evacuees will find refreshments, updates, and support services. After hours, residents can call 250-267-4871 for urgent help.
Dave Dickson, the city’s emergency support director, highlighted the benefits of digital registration. “It makes life so much easier. The system works well, but we know not everyone has smartphones. In those cases, in-person help is available.”
Limited Accommodation and Community Support
So far, about 100 evacuees have already registered. With hotels reaching capacity, some families are being redirected to Prince George and Kamloops. Roughly 40 evacuees secured local hotel rooms, while others found shelter with relatives or friends.
Livestock owners are also being provided guidance on temporary relocation options. Community volunteers have stepped up with offers of supplies, shelter, and assistance. “People have been wonderful,” Dickson said. “That’s what it’s about, helping people.”
Health Services and Alerts in Place
Interior Health confirmed that the West Chilcotin Health Centre in Tatla Lake remains open, though it is under an evacuation alert. Medical appointments and emergency services continue, with officials monitoring conditions closely.
What Residents Must Do Under Evacuation Orders
Authorities have outlined clear steps for those leaving evacuation zones:
- Depart immediately along designated routes.
- Bring pets, critical items like medications, wallets, and keys.
- Avoid unnecessary phone use, lock only essential gates, and leave natural gas lines untouched.
- Use as few vehicles as possible to ease traffic flow.
- Register online at ess.gov.bc.ca or in person at CMRC.
Officials stress that residents who stay behind do so at their own risk, as responders may not be able to reach them safely.
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