Lussier River Wildfire Puts 72 B.C. Properties on Evacuation Alert

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published July 13, 2026

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Authorities in British Columbia have kept dozens of properties in the East Kootenay region under an evacuation alert as the Lussier River wildfire continues to burn out of control, prompting intensified efforts to prevent the flames from moving closer to communities near Premier Lake.

According to the Regional District of East Kootenay, the alert covers 72 addresses in the Premier Lake area, while the wildfire has grown to an estimated 115 hectares. An evacuation alert does not require residents to leave immediately, but they must be prepared to evacuate on short notice if the situation worsens.

The affected area extends from roughly six kilometres north of Premier Lake to south of the Premier Lake campground. It also reaches about 2.5 kilometres west of the lake and east toward the nearby mountain slopes. Residents have been urged to consult the official emergency map to confirm whether their properties are included.

Wildfire crews are working on the ground to strengthen containment lines, while water-skimming aircraft are supporting suppression efforts from the air. Heavy equipment is also being used to build machine guards and improve access routes around the fire.

Authorities have asked people near Premier Lake and Columbia Lake to remain clear of firefighting aircraft and stay close to shore when water-skimming planes are operating. Residents with boats, recreational vehicles or trailers have also been advised to move them while the evacuation alert remains in effect, as there may not be enough time if a mandatory evacuation order is issued.

Officials also warned the public not to fly drones or stop on roads to watch or photograph wildfire operations. In a separate wildfire incident in the province, a drone forced helicopters and firefighting aircraft to suspend operations temporarily. Authorities have not said that the drone incident occurred over the Lussier River wildfire itself.

Emergency officials continue to monitor the fire as dry summer conditions and changing winds could affect its behaviour. Residents have been advised to prepare emergency kits, review family evacuation plans and rely only on official alerts and updates.