TNRD issues evacuation order for properties near Big Bar due to McKay Creek wildfire

Photo: Thompson-Nicola Regional District

An evacuation order has been issued for five properties in the Big Bar area due to the McKay Creek Wildfire.

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District has issued the order for properties from 7633 Watson Bar Rd. to 8410 Watson Bar Rd., 9320 Empire Valley Big Bar Rd., and 9180 West Pavilion Rd.

A full map of the area under evacuation order can be found on the TNRD website.

“If you are in the described area, you must leave immediately,” the TNRD said.

If residents are leaving their primary home, the TNRD said they should report to the Lillooet Fire Hall for access to emergency support services.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the McKay Creek fire is estimated at 24,963 hectares in size.

According to the BC Wildfire Service, crews have been seeing increased activity on the west and northwest side of the fire.

As with other wildfires in the region, the McKay Creek fire has been active due to an increase in strong winds and ongoing hot and dry conditions.

BC Wildfire Service said crews are working with heavy equipment and helicopters to attack areas of the fire seeing more activity.

However, BC Wildfire Service said crews have managed to complete successful ignition operations to the south, with crews continuing to mop up and secure that end of the blaze.