Evacuation Orders Near Grand Forks, BC Reduced, Although US Fire Continues to Pose a Threat
Officials managing wildfires have announced that the evacuation order for the town of Grand Forks in B.C.’s southern Interior has been changed to an alert. This comes as an uncontrollable wildfire in Washington state moves northwards, posing a threat to cross the border.
The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary has emphasized that residents must be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice as the Goosmus wildfire continues to pose a risk to life and safety.
According to Emergency Info BC, the updated alert, issued late Wednesday, covers areas west of Highway 41 and south of Highway 3, as well as properties west of Highway 3 from Sleepy Hollow Rd to Phoenix Rd.
Individuals under alert are advised to review their emergency plans and have a grab-and-go bag ready.
The district has provided instructions for evacuation, stating that residents should use Highway 3 to reach the Jack Goddard Memorial Arena in Grand Forks and remain in their vehicles until the reception centre opens.
If evacuation is not possible at that time, residents are urged to contact 911.
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According to the BC Wildfire Service dashboard, the fire was first discovered on Wednesday and covers an area of about two square kilometres.
Mark Stephens, the director of the district’s emergency operations centre, described the situation as “very fast-moving and developing.” He urged everyone to remain vigilant and continuously check the regional district’s website for updates.
