Wildfire forces tactical evacuation at Christina Lake, BC

Tactical evacuations are underway in Christina Lake, B.C., due to wildfire Sunday afternoon, according to officials.

An emergency alert was issued for all properties on Brown Road, Kensington Place and Caitlin Road at 3:45 p.m.

“The Spaulding Creek wildfire poses a threat to human life,” the warning said.

The Kootenay Border Regional District said tactical evacuations are ongoing, with police and other first responders going door-to-door to inform and assist residents.

Residents are being directed to the Christina Lake Community Hall, where emergency services volunteers are expected to arrive Sunday afternoon.

Highway 3 was closed in both directions at the East Lake Drive bridge due to the fire.

The BC Fire Service said the fire broke out Sunday and provincial crews were providing ground and air support to the local fire service.

“We are working with local government partners to protect public safety,” the service said in a social media post.