'They are not taking this decision lightly': Wildfire forces Williams Lake, B.C., seniors homes to move residents
CTV
Firefighters continue to battle raging wildfires in B.C.’s Cariboo Region, and concern is growing that recent weather could worsen the situation.
Firefighters continue to battle raging wildfires in B.C.’s Cariboo Region, and concern is growing that recent weather could worsen the situation.
Lorne Doerkson, the MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin, posted a video to social media on Monday night saying a recent thunderstorm likely sparked more wildfires in the area.
The BC Conservative MLA went on to say he had a phone call with Health Minister Adrian Dix, during which they discussed the province's plan to evacuate several seniors homes in the Williams Lake area.
“He has made it clear to me that out of an abundance of caution, they are going to move our seniors to a different community,” said Doerkson.
“They are not taking this decision lightly.”
He said the planning began Monday evening for Deni House and Cariboo Place, and on Tuesday, Williams Lake Seniors Village will move. The location remains to be determined, but Doerskon says he will update the community as soon as information becomes available.
According to the BC Wildfire Service, the Williams Lake River Valley blaze has grown to 40 hectares since it was discovered on Sunday night. An evacuation alert remains in effect.
