As outdoor enthusiasts take to the backcountry this weekend, the Wildfire Management Branch is encouraging all recreationalists to avoid areas within the vicinity of the 586 hectare Elaho Wildfire, 67 kilometers west of Pemberton.

Wildfire crews are continuing to make steady progress on the Elaho wildfire. Heavy operational activities continue in the area including danger tree assessment and falling, mop-up, and helicopter bucketing. Firefighters continue to utilize the Elaho River Valley Road daily.

For the safety of the public and our crews, please avoid this area over weekend. Road access remains restricted along the Elaho River Valley Road at 53 kilometre.

Hot, dry weather conditions are forecasted for this weekend, which will dry out forest fuels and likely increase the fire danger rating from “high” to “extreme”. Crews are prepared for elevated fire activity and will be taking the necessary actions to limit further growth and/or crown fire.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

Quick Facts:

• As of noon, Saturday, June 27, 2015, a campfire ban will be in place for many areas of the Coastal Fire Centre, including the Elaho Valley, Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton areas. This prohibition does not apply within the boundaries of a local government that has wildfire prevention bylaws in place and is serviced by a fire department.
• A crown fire is a fire that advances from tree top to tree top. With the appropriate winds, crown fires have the potential to spot to new locations and cause further fire growth.

If you see smoke or flame, report it by calling 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 on your cell phone.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news on:

• Twitter at http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
• Facebook at http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contacts:

(From Friday June 26 to Saturday June 27, 2015)
Erin Catherall
Fire Information Officer
Incident Management Team
Wildfire Management Branch
250 410-0495

(From Sunday June 28, 2015, onwards)
Marg Drysdale
Fire Information Officer
Coastal Fire Centre
Wildfire Management Branch
250 951-4209