The smoke billowed ominously over Squamish’s Northridge neighborhood Tuesday evening, transforming a peaceful summer day into hours of urgent evacuation and community displacement. What began as a brush fire quickly escalated into a threatening wildfire that forced dozens of families from their homes and tested the region’s emergency response systems.
“We heard the sirens first, then saw the smoke coming over the ridge,” explained Sara Davison, who fled her Northridge Drive home with only her wallet and her dog. “Within minutes, police were on our street telling everyone to leave immediately. The wind was pushing everything right toward our homes.”
The wildfire, which ignited around 4:30 p.m. in steep terrain behind the residential area, triggered a tactical evacuation of approximately 40 homes as Squamish Fire Rescue worked alongside BC Wildfire Service crews to contain the rapidly spreading flames. By nightfall, the fire had grown to approximately 3 hectares according to preliminary estimates from emergency officials.
Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford addressed concerned residents at a hastily arranged press conference: “Our priority remains the safety of our citizens. While I understand the natural desire to return home, we’re asking everyone to please respect the evacuation orders currently in place.”
The District of Squamish Emergency Operations Centre quickly established a reception center at Brennan Park Recreation Centre for displaced residents, providing essential services and information. Officials confirmed no injuries had been reported, though the full extent of property damage remains unknown as assessment teams await safe access to the area.
BC Wildfire Service deployed multiple air tankers and helicopters throughout the afternoon, conducting strategic water drops to protect homes along the urban-wildland interface. Ground crews faced challenging conditions with steep terrain and shifting winds complicating containment efforts.
Fire Chief Bill Stoner noted the concerning timing of this incident: “This fire comes exceptionally early in what’s already projected to be a difficult wildfire season. The unusually dry spring has created tinder-dry conditions throughout the corridor.”
Climate scientists have repeatedly warned that British Columbia’s wildfire seasons are beginning earlier and lasting longer, with data from Environment Canada showing this spring has been among the driest on record for the Sea-to-Sky region. The precipitation deficit has raised alarm among emergency management officials across the province.
For Squamish residents anxiously watching from emergency shelters or with friends and family, the waiting game continues. “The hardest part is not knowing,” said Michael Torres, who evacuated with his family from Plateau Drive. “Everything we own is in that house, and we have no idea if it’s still standing.”
Officials have urged the broader public to avoid the Northridge area entirely to allow emergency vehicles unimpeded access. Updates on evacuation orders and fire status are being provided through the District of Squamish website and emergency alert system.
As night fell over Squamish, the orange glow on the mountainside served as a stark reminder of the wildfire threat facing communities throughout British Columbia this season – and the critical importance of emergency preparedness in an increasingly unpredictable climate.
For continuing coverage of this developing situation, visit CO24 Breaking News.
