There is a new out of control wildfire in the northwest and is believed to be human-caused.
The wildfire started out as 40 hectares but now has grown to 175 hectares between Highway 16 and the Skeena, just south of Cedarvale.
The Regional District of Kitmat-Stikine has issued an Evacuation alert for the Koonwats 7 area. This is not for the Gitwangak community – the alert is only for the area shown on the map.
An evacuation alert means those in the area should be ready to leave on short notice. We will update as information becomes available, for full details visit: https://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/
The fire was discovered just before midnight last night and is the only one in the Northwest Fire Centre currently listed as out of control.
Wanda Good Executive Health Director with Gitanyow Human Services Authority, has been in contact with First Nations Health Authority’s Emergency Reponse/Climate Readiness and have the following update:
1. The winds are northeasterly so the smoke is being pushed toward the south. 2. The air quality in Gitanyow is at an acceptable level as of today. For those with respiratory issues, please remain indoors.
2. If air quality gets to an “unacceptable” level we will set up a clean air station for
people
3. If air quality gets to an “unacceptable” level those with mobility challenges or
have respiratory issues will be provided air purifiers
4. Executive Health Director will be on standby and available at any time
5. FAST Mentor, Shawn Milton will be reaching out to Gitwangak Health Director to let them know that we are available to provide them with support if necessary
6. Rain is forecasted for Gitanyow, Gitwangak, Cedarvale and Terrace all weekend, so this will help the fire extinguishing efforts
If you have any concerns in regards to air quality or the impacts to your health or mental health please contact Wanda Good at the Gitanyow Human Services office.
