Kimberley, B.C., Placed Under Evacuation Alert as Nearby Wildfire Grows
The City of Kimberley, British Columbia, has been placed under an evacuation alert as the out-of-control Matthew Creek wildfire continues to burn west of the community.
The alert applies to all properties within Kimberley’s municipal boundaries, affecting approximately 9,000 residents. While no evacuation order has been issued, officials are urging residents to prepare to leave if conditions deteriorate.
Matthew Creek Wildfire Continues to Grow
The Matthew Creek wildfire was first detected on Saturday and had grown to an estimated 5.67 square kilometres (567 hectares) by Sunday evening.
According to the BC Wildfire Service, the fire started in steep, high-elevation terrain that is difficult and unsafe for ground crews to access.
Strong winds, rugged slopes and dense spruce-balsam forests contributed to the fire’s rapid spread. Although fire activity eased on Sunday, officials warned that conditions could intensify during the hottest and driest parts of the day.
Three helicopters and heavy equipment have been deployed to support wildfire suppression efforts.
St. Mary Lake Properties Also on Alert
The Regional District of East Kootenay has also issued an evacuation alert for 66 properties near St. Mary Lake due to two additional wildfires southwest of the Matthew Creek fire.
One wildfire covers approximately 2.5 square kilometres (250 hectares), while the second is less than 0.5 square kilometres. Both fires were discovered on Friday and are believed to have been caused by lightning.
Residents in affected areas are encouraged to monitor official updates, register for emergency notifications and prepare emergency supplies.
Lightning and Smoke Increase Wildfire Concerns
The wildfires are among several active fires across the Southeast Fire Centre following a surge in lightning activity.
The BC Wildfire Service recorded more than 4,000 lightning strikes across the province on Friday, including over 1,300 strikes in southeastern British Columbia.
Meanwhile, Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a yellow-level air quality warning for southern East Kootenay, including Cranbrook, due to wildfire smoke.
Wildfire activity continues to threaten communities in southeastern British Columbia, with Kimberley and nearby areas remaining on evacuation alert. Residents are being advised to stay informed, prepare for possible evacuation and follow official emergency guidance as conditions evolve.
