Kimberley, British Columbia lifts evacuation alert as wildfire containment improves

The evacuation alert for all properties in the City of Kimberley has been lifted after progress in suppressing the Matthews Creek wildfire, which is now estimated at 869 hectares. An alert remains in place for 66 rural properties around St. Mary’s Lake due to the nearby Tower Creek wildfires.

BC Wildfire Service officials, including Fire Chief Will Booth, said the decision was based on improved fire behaviour forecasts, crew advances and available resources. Mayor Don McCormick thanked fire crews, heavy‑equipment operators, pilots and community volunteers for their effort, noting the resilience of local residents.

An incident management team continues to coordinate response to both wildfires, with crews working on containment lines and contingency guards while residents are asked to stay alert to changing conditions.