Wildfire West of Needles Grows to 832 Hectares

BC Wildfire image Inonoaklin Creek wildfire uploaded July 27 2026

July 29 2026 NEEDLES, B.C.- The lightning-caused Inonoaklin Creek wildfire west of Needles along Highway 6 has grown to 831.38 hectares and remains out of control, according to a BC Wildfire Service update issued July 29, 2026.

Fire N51198 was discovered July 25 and is burning in a steep, fuel-loaded area approximately 17 kilometres northwest of Needles on the north side of Highway 6.

The challenging terrain is limiting safe access for a direct attack, so crews are using an indirect strategy that builds control lines away from the active front with machine guards and natural barriers.

An evacuation alert issued by the Regional District of Central Kootenay remains in effect for one property and homes in the vicinity of Lightning Peak Road and Highway 6.

An area restriction is also in place in the Inonoaklin Creek area.The fire is visible to travellers on Highway 6 but is not currently impacting the road.

Heavy equipment is constructing machine guards to establish control lines and improve access. Crews are reinforcing those guards and setting up water delivery systems. Danger tree specialists are assessing and falling hazardous trees, while three helicopters, including two heavy-lift machines, are cooling the fire’s edge and limiting spread in support of ground crews.

Eight firefighters and multiple pieces of heavy equipment (two dozers, two skidders, two excavators, two bunchers and two low beds) are assigned.

Wildfire West of Needles Grows to 832 Hectares