Wildfire
Evacuation Alert issued for St. Mary Lake area
Updated on
Current situation
The Regional District of East Kootenay has issued an Evacuation Alert for 66 properties in RDEK Electoral Area E in the St. Mary Lake area due to the Tower Creek wildfires (N10944 and N10947). Anyone in the affected area must be ready to leave on short notice.
The Evacuation Alert area includes all properties along St. Mary Lake Road, from the municipal boundary of the City of Kimberley to the intersection of Redding Creek Forest Service Road and St. Mary Lake Road.
An Evacuation Alert has also been issued for the City of Kimberley including all properties within the municipal boundaries due to the Matthew Creek Fire (N11020).
This is the time for residents within both Evacuation Alert areas to ensure they are staying informed from factual sources, are registered for the Regional Evacuation Notification System, and are taking steps to prepare themselves and their families should conditions worsen.
Recommended actions for Evacuation Alerts
Follow all directions from officials:
If you are in the area under Evacuation Alert, be ready to leave on short notice.
Refer to the Evacuation Alert for information specific to your community.
Links and resources
Issuing authority resources
BC Wildfire Service
Updates on wildfire information and provincial fire bans in B.C.
DriveBC
Find the latest travel and highway updates in B.C. from DriveBC on X (Twitter).
Mental health supports
Find information about the services available if you are experiencing anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges.
Wildfire evacuee guidance
Find general emergency evacuee guidance. Always follow the instructions of your Local Authority or First Nation.
PreparedBC
Learn how to prepare for wildfires with resources from PreparedBC.
Understanding emergency events
Evacuation stages
Evacuation Alert
Be ready to leave on short notice.
Evacuation Order
You are at risk. Leave the area immediately.
Evacuation Rescind
The threat to life and safety has passed.
Tactical Evacuation
A sudden threat to life requires immediate action. There is no time to prepare or issue written warnings. Local emergency responders coordinate the evacuation. Follow the advice and direction of authorities.