The District of Squamish north of Vancouver has declared a local state of emergency due to an out-of-control wildfire that it says poses an imminent threat to people and property.
The declaration signed by Mayor Armand Hurford says the blaze is threatening the neighbourhoods of Brackendale, Tantalus Road and Skyridge.
The district says on its website that the fire is being fought by air and groundcrews from the BC Wildfire Service, while Squamish Fire Rescue crews are setting up sprinklers to protect homes and assisting with fire suppression.
It says the fire is about five hectares in size and an evacuation alert that was imposed on Monday is expected to be expanded today.
However, residents have not yet been ordered to leave.
The district says the emergency declaration will remain in place until June 24 unless rescinded.
