Dozens of homes in and around Lytton, British Columbia, have been evacuated as the Saw Creek wildfire, burning out of control just south of the village, continues to spread. Evacuation orders have been expanded to include more properties, with residents in affected areas told to leave immediately. The wildfire, which is estimated to have grown to 600 hectares, has also led to the closure of Highway 1 between Boston Bar and Ashcroft.
This is a particularly distressing situation for Lytton, a community that was largely destroyed by a devastating wildfire in June 2021. That fire claimed two lives and left the village in ruins, and many residents are still in the process of rebuilding. The current situation has understandably left many of those who remain on edge, with the memory of the 2021 disaster being heavily triggered.
The BC Wildfire Service has deployed 130 personnel, supported by nine helicopters, to combat the Saw Creek fire. While fire activity eased overnight, crews are anticipating further growth due to hot and dry conditions. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation but is suspected to be human-caused. An air quality warning has also been issued for the region due to wildfire smoke.
The broader outlook for the 2026 wildfire season in British Columbia has been concerning, with forecasts predicting hotter-than-normal temperatures and persistent drought conditions across much of the province. Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential wildfire activity throughout the summer months.
