The status of the Mt. Hayes wildfires continues to be classified as “Being Held” on Monday with no change at this time to the Evacuation Alerts.

These ongoing Evacuation Alerts are for Takala Road, Ivey Road and David Road, as well as the FortisBC facility and Bush Creek Fish Hatchery. 

While conditions have improved since the start of the incident on Thursday, residents are reminded that a State of Local Emergency issued by the CVRD’s Regional Emergency Operations Centre remains in effect.  

Please continue to watch for updates from the CVRD and avoid the area around Mt. Hayes. 

On Sunday, the wildfire was downgraded from ‘Out of Control’ to ‘Being Held’ after BC Wildfire Service crews successfully established a control line around the perimeter. 

However, the interior of the fire continues to burn and Ladysmith and area residents may experience poor air quality in the coming days as a result of the smoke. 

Self-monitor and watch for any change in symptoms due to smoke exposure. You can find more information on the Island Health website: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/environment/wildfires

Over the coming days, BCWS is committing one helicopter, two officers, 56 firefighters and 12 pieces of heavy equipment.

Watch for another update on the Mt. Hayes wildfire later on Monday night.