Squamish Nation urging tourists to stay away due to wildfire risk

People in Metro Vancouver planning to head to the backcountry between Squamish and Whistler for the weekend might want to rethink their decision.

The Squamish First Nation is urging visitors to stay away because of an out-of-control wildfire.

According to the BC Fire Service, the 38-hectare Shovelnose Creek Wildfire continues to spread despite best efforts by fire crews.

The fire is located just off the Squamish Valley Forest Service Road, west of Whistler.

Read more:

• Shovelnose Creek wildfire burning at 38 hectares between Squamish and Whistler

• B.C. wildfire burning out of control between Squamish and Whistler

The BC Wildfire Service says the road is inaccessible due to flooding, and adds it is closed to motorized vehicles and target shooting.

This backcountry area is popular with recreation users and is part of the Squamish Nation territory.

Councilor Wilson Williams says he is very concerned for the safety of his membership, recreation users, and wildlife.

“Everyone is concerned that this could pick up again because the sun is not going away this weekend, and we want to make sure we have plans in place,” he said.

“It’s very unpredictable, mother nature works in very alarming ways.”

Williams says the unpredictable nature of the winds means the speed and size of the fire can change quickly.

He says the fire was likely human-caused and he’s worried people coming into the area could make the situation even more volatile.