Clowhom Lake Fire
On August 29, 2023, a fire was discovered near Clowhom Lake, approximately 32 km northeast of Sechelt. The BC Wildfire Services (BCWS) has declared this fire as being naturally/lightening ignited. As of September 18, 2023, the fire has grown to the size of 411 hectares.
Sunshine Coast Regional District State of Local Emergency
On September 15th, the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) board chair Leonard Lee declared a state of local emergency. There are currently 7 properties in the surrounding area that are on evacuation order; however, only one structure is affected. The evacuation order was made by the SCRD Emergency Operations Center (EOC), as advised by the BCWS. The order will ensure the “protection of human life, and while firefighters work to control the wildfire and protect critical infrastructure”.
According to a Coast Reporter article, the main area affected by the evacuation order is around the BC Hydro Dam and an independent power project – the BCWS has been in constant communication with those involved.
Rob Michael, EOC Director, states that “the general population of the Sunshine Coast is not at risk at this time”.
You can follow the status of this wildfire on the Wildfires Map of BCWS.
What you Can Do
The SCCA encourages all Sunshine Coast residents and visitors to use water conservatively, and to be extremely mindful of fire bans and dry conditions.