In response to the wildfire in the Upper Squamish Valley, the District of Squamish has declared a local state of emergency.
The fire had reached 60 hectares by late Wednesday night.
The blaze began at 4:15 p.m Wednesday afternoon, within the Upper Squamish Valley, which is within the Squamish Lillooet Regional District (SLRD).
Several homes were evacuated within the SLRD and housing has been arranged for residents at Squamish hotels.
The Canadian Red Cross will be helping evacuees on Thursday.
Squamish Valley residents beyond Magee Road are on Evacuation Alert.
The declaration of local emergency was announced at 11 p.m. April 15 and is for residents within District boundaries in Paradise Valley, according to a District press release.
Declaring a state of local emergency enables municipalities to exercise extraordinary emergency powers.
More on local states of emergency here.
"The District of Squamish has been in close contact with lead agencies BC Wildfire Service, Squamish RCMP and the Squamish Lillooet Regional District (SLRD), and issued the Evacuation Alert this evening following their recommendation." reads the District release.
"Agencies are also co-ordinating efforts with the Squamish Nation as the Ch’iyakmesh Reserve is also under Evacuation Alert."
Squamish Fire Rescue (SFR) has two crews —10 firefighters and one engine — and a structural protection unit helping battle the blaze, according to the District.
The District fire department is working to protect structures and homes directly threatened by fire.
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