LYTTON, B.C. — British Columbia's Wildfire Service says a blaze in the Fraser Canyon has been renamed and is now classified as out-of-control after charring 2.5 square kilometres south of Lytton, B.C.
The service says the George Road wildfire, which grew to more than twice its size since it began Wednesday is suspected to be human-caused but remains under investigation.
It says helicopter crews are assisting firefighters in areas that are inaccessible because part of the blaze is on steep terrain.
It says 73 firefighters backed by nine helicopters are fighting the blaze with a four-member crew keeping watch on the flames overnight.
Evacuation alerts have been issued by Thompson-Nicola Regional District and the Lytton First Nation for 10 homes in the area.
The service says smoke can be seen by those travelling on Highway 1 and communities in the surrounding area.
Environment Canada says the area will see sunny days and temperatures in the 30s over the next week.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 19, 2021.
The Canadian Press
