Wildfire near Needles grows to 260 hectares, remains out of control

NEEDLES, B.C. July 27 2026 - A lightning-caused wildfire in the Southeast Fire Centre has grown to 260 hectares and remains out of control, according to the latest update from the BC Wildfire Service.

Fire N51198 was discovered on July 25, 2026, and is burning in heavy timber on a steep slope near Inonoaklin Creek, about 17 kilometres northwest of Needles on the north side of Highway 6.

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The blaze is visible to travellers along the highway but is not currently affecting the road.

Officials urge motorists to stay focused on driving and keep clear of personnel working in the area.

Steep terrain, hot and dry conditions, and abundant fuel continue to challenge firefighters.

Fire behaviour has been observed at ranks 2 and 3, with open surface flames, a moderate rate of spread, and occasional tree candling.

Activity and smoke are expected to increase during peak daytime heating hours.

Suppression efforts include heavy equipment building control lines and machine guards, crews constructing helipads and assessing danger trees, airtankers dropping retardant to limit northern growth, and helicopters bucketing water along the southern flank toward the highway.

Resources assigned include an initial attack crew, two helicopters, and multiple pieces of heavy equipment such as dozers, skidders, excavators, and bunchers.

There are currently no area restrictions near the fire.

Wildfire near Needles grows to 260 hectares, remains out of control