Grand Forks Evacuation Order downgraded after US wildfire pushed towards Canadian border
Posted September 25, 2024 6:40 pm.
Last Updated September 26, 2024 7:39 am.
After a few tense hours, an Evacuation Order was downgraded to an Alert by the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB) for the Grand Forks area after a wildfire burning in the United States moved north towards the Canadian border Wednesday.
The evacuation alert was issued just before 5 p.m. Wednesday by Emergency Info BC because the Goosmus Wildfire poses a “threat to human life.” Just after 8 p.m., the Order was downgraded by Emergency Info BC.
It said anyone west of Highway 41 and south of Highway 3, and anyone in properties west of Highway 3 from Sleepy Hollow Rd to Phoenix Rd must evacuate immediately.
In a social media post to X, the RDKB says Highway 3 between Hwy 41 and Phoenix Road was closed Wednesday because of the wildfire, however reopened after a few hours.
Emergency Info BC shared that people could evacuate east along Highway 3 to Jack Goddard Memorial Arena, 2020 Central Avenue.
It advised those unable to evacuate to call 911.
At the time of the Evacuation Order, 156 residences were on order, while 113 residences were on evacuation alert.
Red Cross emergency support services opened a reception centre at the Grand Forks Arena.
“Evacuated residents are to stay in their vehicles until the reception centre is opened, likely within the hour,” the RDKB website shared.
The BC Wildfire Service explains the Goosmus wildfire was first discovered Wednesday in Washington State and is burning out of control at 200 hectares.
It says the current weather conditions are pushing this wildfire north towards the Canadian border.
The suspected cause is under investigation.
“The BC Wildfire Service is currently deploying crews and structure protection resources to the Grand Forks area,” BCWS said on its website.
“Washington State has crews, heavy equipment, and air support en route. BC Wildfire Service is currently mobilizing unit crews to the area to support the regional fire departments.”
The district is asking people to check back on its website for new developments.
