A wildfire has broken out in Williams Lake

A state of local emergency was declared in Williams Lake following the outbreak of a wildfire on Sunday. Mayor Surinderpal Rathor informed CityNews just before 9 p.m. that he had signed the declaration a few hours after the fire began.

He mentioned that the River Valley wildfire has caused widespread concern. “Some structures have definitely been affected,” he said, without providing further details.

“We are asking residents to conserve water, avoid the area, and remain calm. Stay informed by watching and listening to the news. I am in my office, providing real-time updates to the community as I receive them,” Rathor added.

The state of local emergency enables the city to "undertake emergency measures to respond to and limit any damages to health, safety, and property," according to city officials.

Waterbombers and wildfire crews have been dispatched to the River Valley area to combat the blaze. Flames have been reported on the southwestern side of the community, with some witnesses noting that the fire has spread into an industrial area.

Preliminary reports indicate that the fire may have been ignited by a tree falling on a power line, but this has not been confirmed by the BC Wildfire Service, which states the cause is still under investigation. The service describes the fire as "out of control," meaning it is either spreading or expected to spread beyond its current perimeter or control line.

Wildland and structures ablaze

Jeromy Corrigan, a BC Wildfire Service information officer at the Cariboo Fire Centre, reported that the River Valley wildfire began late Sunday afternoon within the Williams Lake fire jurisdiction.

By 10 p.m., the fire had spread to an estimated 20 hectares.

"The challenge has been that crews are dealing with both wildland and structures on fire," Corrigan explained.

BC Wildfire Service crews are supporting Williams Lake firefighters in their efforts.

"Crews have been working on all three sides of the fire, which has kept it contained at 20 hectares. We advise residents in Williams Lake to avoid the area during this situation," Corrigan said.

In addition to ground attack teams, several aircraft have been assigned to support the local fire department.

Corrigan highlighted the benefits of having both BC Wildfire crews and local firefighters collaborating, given the varied terrain and complexities of the situation.

Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Minister Bowinn Ma confirmed on X that "tactical evacuations have taken place," and "additional alerts have been issued."

"Be prepared for possible evacuation and conserve water for fire crews," she advised.

Residents are urged to avoid the area and conserve water to "ensure an adequate supply for emergency crews working on the wildfire in the Williams Lake River Valley."

Officials stated on Sunday, "The City is working alongside the BC Wildfire Service and other emergency organizations to support fire operations from its EOC and will provide updates as they become available."

The new wildfire emerges amid ongoing hot and dry conditions across the province. Williams Lake and the surrounding areas are currently under a heat warning, with Environment and Climate Change Canada predicting "elevated temperatures."

The warning states, "An extended period of high temperatures will persist due to a ridge of high pressure over the region. Little relief is anticipated at night, with elevated overnight temperatures."

CityNews has contacted the BC Wildfire Service for further details.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.