Coastal British Columbia Faces New Era of Wildfire Threats

A significant shift in wildfire dynamics has emerged in coastal British Columbia, marked by the recent Mount Underwood fire near Port Alberni, which expanded dramatically within hours of its detection on August 11, 2023. This blaze quickly engulfed over 3,000 hectares, prompting the evacuation of approximately 400 properties and cutting off access to Bamfield. The rapid growth of the fire illustrates a worrying trend as climate change continues to fuel larger and more severe wildfires in regions historically characterized by mild fire activity.

The Mount Underwood fire erupted in an area where smaller blazes were typically manageable. In the past, crews could swiftly extinguish minor fires with a straightforward method: locate the fire, apply water, and dig up hot spots. This approach was feasible due to the slow growth rate of fires in coastal ecosystems. According to Jonathan Reimer, a wildfire and emergency manager based in Victoria, “We were able to get to the edge of the fire, be on the fire line, apply water, use heavy equipment, and do that pretty close to the leading edge of the fire.”

Historically, the coastal forests of British Columbia have been protected from severe fire threats due to the region’s unique climate and abundance of moisture. However, prolonged droughts and rising temperatures are changing this reality. Reimer notes that “the initial attack is becoming more challenging,” as fires now have the potential to escalate rapidly, posing significant risks to nearby communities.

The severity of fires on the coast is evolving as well. In contrast to the Interior of British Columbia, where dry grasslands and fast-burning brush can lead to intense fires, coastal forests have previously been less prone to severe blazes. Yet, the Mount Underwood fire, classified as a Rank 5 fire, demonstrated how quickly the situation can change. Julia Caranci, a communications officer with the BC Wildfire Service, remarked, “In the seven years I’ve worked for the Coastal Fire Centre, I don’t think I’ve seen a fire like this on Vancouver Island.”

This incident follows a series of fires in 2022 and 2023 that prompted major highway closures and forced communities to reassess their vulnerability to wildfires. Significant wildfires near locations such as Sooke and Harrison Lake have heightened concerns about the implications of climate change for coastal residents. Lori Daniels, a forestry professor at the University of British Columbia, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “There were a few wake-up calls for us in coastal B.C.”

The changing landscape, exacerbated by logging practices, has made the region more susceptible to fires. The replacement of fire-resistant old-growth forests with younger, less diverse trees has created conditions that allow fires to spread more easily. As Daniels explained, “Our second-growth forests are very productive, but there are stages where they are very susceptible to fire, particularly when they are quite young.”

Climate change has also increased the prevalence of pest infestations, which damage trees and make them more vulnerable to fire. With warmer temperatures expected to lead to more lightning strikes, the risk of ignition is heightened. Observing trends in neighboring regions, Reimer highlighted that the coastal areas of Washington and Oregon have faced significant wildfire challenges over the past century, with devastating fires causing extensive damage and loss of life.

“As we look to the south, we can really see what’s in our future,” Reimer stated, underscoring the growing concerns about potential fire behavior in British Columbia’s coastal forests.

The emergence of wildfires in previously unaffected areas has left residents feeling anxious and uncertain. Even smaller blazes, such as the Old Man Lake fire north of Sooke, which burned 230 hectares without causing evacuations, can trigger widespread concern. Premier David Eby acknowledged the fear that has arisen among residents: “It’s really terrifying for a place like Vancouver Island that has never really grappled with wildfires in the way that they have these past few years.”

As coastal communities adapt to the increasing threat of wildfires, Reimer suggests that residents can take proactive steps to mitigate risks. Simple actions such as clearing gutters, maintaining dry lawns during droughts, and removing debris from around homes can significantly reduce fire hazards. Increased awareness and preparedness are essential as the region grapples with the realities of a changing climate.

While British Columbia has experienced challenging wildfire seasons, the province has managed to avoid the more frequent destructive fires seen in the United States. With many coastal communities located near bodies of water, the geographical layout offers some natural protection against fire. Nevertheless, it is crucial for residents to adopt a more cautious approach to fire safety, particularly as climate conditions evolve.

In summary, the recent Mount Underwood fire serves as a stark reminder that coastal British Columbia is entering a new era of wildfire risk. With changing climate patterns and the historical absence of significant wildfires, residents must remain vigilant and proactive in adapting to the challenges posed by an increasingly hazardous environment. As communities reflect on their experiences, a collective effort to enhance fire preparedness will be crucial in safeguarding lives and property in the years to come.