The Wesley Ridge wildfire near Cameron Lake continues to burn. According to the B.C. Wildfire Service, as of Wednesday, the fire had grown to 538 hectares. The response involves over 240 personnel, 7 helicopters, 8 pieces of heavy equipment, and more than 80 structure protection specialists. Despite these efforts, the wildfire’s status remains out of control.

On Tuesday, light rain fell in the area, but only between 5 and 10 millimetres of precipitation were recorded. 

As the fire continues along the northern slopes near the lake, it has approached the protected provincial park of Cathedral Grove, located on the western edge of Cameron Lake. The park is home to a lush old-growth forest with trees reaching up to 80 metres tall. According to the B.C. Wildfire Service, although the fire is close, the park is not currently at risk.

Meanwhile, more than 387 properties remain under evacuation order, with approximately 250 more under evacuation alert. An emergency reception centre has been set up in Qualicum Beach (Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones St).

Temporary restrictions remain in place in areas near the fire, in smoke-affected zones, and around bodies of water being used by firefighting aircraft. Travellers on Highway 4 are advised to avoid stopping in areas affected by smoke.