An aggressive wildfire in the southern Cariboo has forced the Thompson-Nicola Regional District to issue an evacuation order covering 131 properties around Big Bar Lake and Meadow Lake, and has prompted the closure of Big Bar Lake Provincial Park.
Scope and immediate direction for residents
The fire — known as the Fiftynine Creek wildfire — was discovered Friday southeast of Big Bar Lake and had grown to an estimated 4,000 hectares (40 square kilometres) by 8 p.m. PT the same day, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service. Officials say the blaze is believed to have been sparked by lightning.
Authorities said the evacuation order affects 131 addressed properties and nearly 50 campsites at the provincial park, a popular destination in the Cariboo. While officials have not provided a final count of people displaced, the regional district said the number is likely in the hundreds.
“If the fire has reached Big Bar Lake Road and it is unsafe to travel east, evacuees can travel west on Big Bar Road and travel out of the area through either Meadow Lake to the north or Jesmond to the south.”
Local officials advised people to leave by travelling east along Big Bar Road toward Highway 97, provided that route remains safe. Those evacuating from Meadow Lake are being directed east along Meadow Lake Road toward Highway 97. If eastbound travel is unsafe, alternate westbound routes via Meadow Lake or Jesmond are in place.
What officials say and practical details
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District also issued an evacuation alert for 63 properties from Poison Lake Road to Highway 97 because of the ongoing threat from the Fiftynine Creek fire. The B.C. Wildfire Service is coordinating response efforts; additional resources and updates are expected as conditions evolve.
- Wildfire name: Fiftynine Creek wildfire
- Estimated size (as of 8 p.m. PT Friday): 4,000 hectares (40 sq. km)
- Properties under evacuation order: 131 addressed properties
- Provincial park affected: Big Bar Lake Provincial Park (about 50 campsites)
- Likely cause: Lightning strike
Residents and visitors in the area should monitor official channels from the Thompson-Nicola Regional District and B.C. Wildfire Service for evacuation updates, road closures and information on reception centres. Those with livestock or large animals should prepare early evacuation plans and follow guidance from local authorities.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Estimated hectares | 4,000 ha |
| Properties under order | 131 |
| Park campsites affected | ~50 |
Information remains fluid. Residents are urged to act promptly on evacuation orders, keep clear of wildfire response operations and avoid travel in the affected area unless absolutely necessary.
InfoRadar will continue to follow official updates from the Thompson-Nicola Regional District and the B.C. Wildfire Service and will publish further details as they become available.
