Update: Evacuation alert lifted for wildfire northwest of Endako

Update: The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako has rescinded an evacuation alert that was issued August 26 on the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service. Residents in the affected area are no longer under alert, but officials caution that wildfire conditions can change quickly. The regional district says it will continue to monitor the situation closely.

Earlier: A wildfire northwest of Endako is expected to grow as BC Wildfire Service crews continue an aggressive response to the lightning-caused blaze.

Wildfire G41970 is burning approximately 4.6 kilometres north of Highway 16 and about seven kilometres northwest of Endako. The fire is believed to have been sparked by lightning after the Prince George Fire Centre recorded 3,875 lightning strikes in the region.

Officials say the fire is currently burning at Rank 2 and Rank 3 intensity, meaning it is displaying visible open flames, spreading at a slow to moderate rate, and producing an organized flame front with occasional candling of trees. The wildfire is anticipated to expand eastward toward Tatin Lake.