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Overnight winds push Ainslie Creek fire farther south toward Trans-Canada Highway

The out-of-control blaze is estimated at 65,310 hectares, and crews are using helicopters, hand guards and planned ignitions to slow its advance.

  • The Ainslie Creek wildfire pushed downslope toward Highway 1 in the Fraser Canyon overnight, prompting ongoing structure protection efforts. As of Tuesday morning, the blaze is estimated at 65,310 hectares, with significant debris falling north of the Alexandra Bridge.
  • Warmer, drier conditions are expected to increase fire activity throughout the week, with temperatures reaching 30°C in Merritt on Tuesday. The Brunswick Complex manages the response with 323 firefighters, 92 structure protection personnel, 19 helicopters, and 47 pieces of heavy equipment.
  • Crews are mopping up around a successful planned ignition south of the fire's head, which reduced fuel to prevent further southern spread. Elsewhere, reduced fire behaviour near Spius Creek allows personnel to directly attack the perimeter.
  • Highway 1 remains closed between Toll Road and Aspen Road, just south of Boston Bar, due to significant debris and rock fall from fire activity. An Area Restriction Order addresses public and responder safety in suppression zones.
  • Environment Canada forecasts southwest winds gusting to 40 km/h on Tuesday, complicating suppression efforts. A public information session on the Ainslie Creek wildfire is scheduled for Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Merritt Civic Centre.
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castanetkamloops.net broke the news on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
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