Approximately 12 km south of Port Alberni, near the route between Port Alberni and Bamfield (Bamfield Main Road), which is currently closed, the Mount Underwood wildfire (designation V71498) has broken out.

According to the latest BC Wildfire Service update, the fire’s size has rapidly grown from an initial 150 hectares to 859 hectares (as of 11:00 a.m. PDT, August 12). The blaze continues to spread and is currently classified as out of control, with fire behaviour rated at Rank 4–5 — indicating high-intensity burning. A large smoke column is clearly visible from Harbour Quay in Port Alberni.

Three Unit Crews, four helicopters, and one airtanker are currently fighting the fire. Overnight operations have included helicopters equipped with night vision and structure protection specialists.

The wildfire is located near China Creek Regional Park Campground and Marina, which is under evacuation, with approximately 300 people already relocated.