This preliminary risk analysis report has been provided by the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. The results given in this report are preliminary in nature and are intended to be a warning of potential hazards and risks. This is not a final risk analysis and further work may alter the conclusions.
View the preliminary report here:
Preliminary Post-Fire Risk Analysis V82441 Gold Valley Main Fire
EVACUATION ORDER ISSUED
Amendment to Evacuation Order issued August 18, 2018 13:20
Effective September 8, 2018 8:00am
On the recommendation of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resources Operations and Rural Development, an Evacuation Order has been issued by the Village of Zeballos due to immediate danger to life safety due to potential debris falls or slides. Members of the RCMP and Zeballos Emergency Program will be expediting this action.
The Evacuation Order is in effect for the following areas:
Map of Order: 2018 Evacuation Order Map – Ferris Road, East Side of Maquinna, North of Sugar Loaf Bridge
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
You must leave the area immediately
Follow the travel route provided and register at the Village Office at 157 Maquinna Avenue .
If you need transportation assistance from the area please advise the individual providing this notice or call 250-761-4229 .
Close all windows and doors
Shut off all gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers
Close gates (latch) but do not lock
Gather your family: take a neighbour or someone who needs help
Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and Keys) only if they are immediately available. Take pets in pet kennels or on leash.
Do not use more vehicles then you have to.
Do not use the telephone unless you need emergency service.
YOU MUST LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY
For more information contact: 250-761-4229
See official Evacuation Order here: Evacuation Order_Debris Fall Risk Sept 8, 2018
Tuesday, September 4, 2018 Wildfire update:
The fire had very little movement since our last update. Hot spots throughout the fire zone continue to smolder. BCWS crews fought the hot spots behind homes and have been bucketing hot spots with a heavy helicopter on the South flank when required. The sprinkler system set up behind homes on Pandora Crescent will remain in place. The Comox Structural Protection Unit and medics have been released from their duties in the Village and have returned home.
Fortunately, the forecast for rain in the coming days will help in finally putting this fire to rest!
Monday, September 3, 2018 Wildfire update:
The Village received 11mm of rain overnight, and the fire has calmed down a bit. Port McNeill FD was released from duty in the Village and returned home. Comox SPU may be released Tuesday or Wednesday. Two medic personnel will remain in town for now. BCWS, the Village, and the Province will be looking into a slope stability assessment.
BCWS crews will continue to monitor the hot spots located behind the properties at the top of Pandora Crescent and North Maquinna and extinguish as required. The existing sprinkler systems on structures will continue to be maintained and expanded as required.
View the PDF version of this update here: Zeballos Wildfire Update – September 3
Sunday, September 2, 2018 Wildfire update:
The fire remains at approximately 168 hectares, with very little change or movement. Heavy helicopters will continue to assess the fire and bucket water as appropriate in the mornings and the evenings. Water bucketing must be done strategically to be effective.
On the North Flank, BCWS crew were able to extinguish several smoldering fires coming down the mountain at the top of Pandora Crescent. BC Wildfire Service, Port McNeill FD and Comox Structural Protection Unit are continuing to monitor structures adjacent to the mountain.
The South flank of the fire nearest to the powerlines is being monitored. The terrain is too steep to allow personnel in for an attack from the ground at this time.
