Brunswick Creek wildfire smoke prompts air quality advisory for Lytton area

Environment Canada has issued an air quality advisory for areas north of the Brunswick Creek wildfire, including Lytton.

Environment Canada officials said the smoke is impacting air quality and could reduce visibility.

The forecaster recommends postponing or reducing strenuous outdoor activities until air quality improves.

“Some people are more likely to be negatively impacted by smoke. This includes people with lung and heart conditions, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people aged 65 and older, and anyone whose health is affected by a chronic condition or acute illness,” said Environment Canada.

You can avoid smoke inhalation by staying inside, using an air filter, or spending time in a place with clean air, such as community centres, libraries, or malls.

The fire, which is estimated to be 100 hectares in size, has led the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) to issue an evacuation order for North Bend. An evacuation alert is also in place for the Boston Bar area.

As of Sunday (July 5) the BC Wildfire Service has declared it a fire of note, with wildfire fighters working alongside the Boston Bar Fire Department to combat the blaze.

“Boston Bar Fire Department, 3 initial attack crews, 2 Unit Crews, and 2 response officers are responding, supported by aviation (6 helicopters through the day) and heavy equipment, structure protection, and two groups of helicopters equipped with night vision,” said the BCWS.

The BCWS said fire behaviour increased on Saturday due to strong downslope winds gusting at 40 to 50 kilometres per hour.

“The wind resulted in several spot fires to the North of the incident which BC Wildfire Service is also responding to. This includes V10755, and V10753,” said BCWS officials.

Smoke has also impacting visibly for firefighting crews.

“Poor visibility and steep terrain will limit the use of aviation resources. The safety of our crews, pilots and the public is our first priority,” said the BCWS.

“Smoke has been highly visible to the public in the vicinity of Highway 1, including into the Merritt area.”

The suspected human-caused fire has led to the closure of Chaumox Road, but is not expected to impact the Trans-Canada Highway, which is on the opposite bank of the Fraser River.

This air quality advisory comes as the 663 hectare Saw Creek fire near Lytton is still burning, but it has been listed as under control since June 23.