Lytton wildfire caused estimated $78 million in insured damage: IBC

LYTTON (NEWS 1130) – We are getting a better idea of just how financially devastating the wildfire that destroyed most of the Village of Lytton was.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada says with roughly 300 claims made so far — most related to residential properties — insured damage is estimated at around $78 million.

The majority of Lytton was destroyed by the Lytton Creek wildfire on June 30. The community was forced to leave at a moment’s notice, as flames quickly approached.

Two people died.

The fire continues to burn, now at an estimated 51,000 hectares in size. The cause of the fire remains unclear at this time, however, investigations are underway into whether a nearby train may have sparked the flames.

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As B.C. continues to navigate what has been an early start to a devastating wildfire season, the Insurance Bureau says the increasing impacts of our changing climate make it clear much more must be done to create a culture of preparedness.

“We all must do better to prepare for wildfires, floods, heat, hail and windstorms. These perils are having an outsized impact on those most vulnerable and, as a result, we must greatly enhance our efforts to mitigate future change and adapt to the new weather reality we face,” said IBC Vice President Aaron Sutherland.

In the days leading up to the destruction of Lytton, the community recorded the highest-ever temperature in Canada on three consecutive days.

Experts have said that climate change is expected to fuel bigger fires that last longer in the years ahead, adding drought, heat, and drier conditions will likely become the norm in seasons to come.

Related articles: 

• Climate change fueling B.C. wildfires now and in years to come: expert

• Is B.C.’s ‘dangerous long-duration heatwave’ due to climate change?

• Lytton to be rebuilt with ‘climate-friendly’ vision after devastating fire: Horgan

The Insurance Bureau says the wildfire that tore through Lytton is a “tragic reminder of the increasing risk” B.C. communities — as well as many others across Canada — face because of climate change.

“Governments at all levels must do more to prioritize investments that build our resilience and better protect our families and communities,” the IBC urges.

Applauding B.C.’s renewal of its Climate Adaptation Strategy, the bureau says Canada needs to develop a “comprehensive plan” to address such matters.

People impacted by the Lytton Creek fire who have not yet filed a claim or who have questions about their insurance are asked to call their insurance representative or the IBC at 1.844.2ask.IBC.