An evacuation alert has been issued by the qathet Regional District emergency operations centre (EOC) effective August 30 at 3 pm due to an active wildfire burning near the privately-operated Toba Montrose hydroelectric facility located in Toba Inlet.
According to a media release, this alert is in place for a four-kilometer radius around the Toba Montrose facility near the confluence of the Toba and East Toba River in Electoral Area A.
"This 30-hectare wildfire has been burning near the facility for the last two weeks, and poses no threat beyond the immediate Toba River area," stated Ryan Thoms, manager of emergency services. "We are issuing this evacuation alert due to unburned fuel in close proximity to the fire, which, if lit, could compromise the singular access route in and out of the area."
This evacuation alert is in place to prepare those currently in the area to evacuate should it be determined necessary to do so, the release stated. The EOC will provide as much advance notice as possible prior to an evacuation order, however, those impacted may receive limited notice due to changing conditions, according to the release. Those affected by the alert can contact the EOC with any questions at [email protected] or by calling 604.414.4553.
Provincial resources for information on wildfires in the region are available at gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status or through the free BC Wildfire Service app. For accurate information on emergencies, response and recovery resources, visit emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca.
The release stated that those under an evacuation alert should have a plan to transport family members and employees should an evacuation order be called.
Keep essential items such as government-issued identification, medications, eyeglasses, valuable documents, immediate care needs for dependents and pets, the release stated. It is also important to ensure all dependents are prepared for departure.
It is important to arrange accommodation options. Also, reliable news sources should be monitored for information on evacuation orders, and the regional district’s channels on Facebook and qathet.ca.
