Coldstream, BC, 2024-08-20: A fast-moving tree and shrub fire broke out just before 10 p.m. on Monday along Aberdeen Road, just north of Venables Road, in Coldstream.
The fire, which started on the west side of Aberdeen, quickly spread across the road, fueled by the extremely dry conditions following a hot summer.
The blaze threatened power and communication lines, and witnesses reported seeing bright white-blue flashes, possibly from power lines, though it's unclear if the lines played a role in starting the fire.
Concerns over downed power lines prompted BC Hydro crews to respond.
Coldstream and Lavington fire crews worked swiftly to contain the fire. Although the main fire was knocked down quickly, managing spot fires took several hours. The RCMP also attended.
Aberdeen Road was closed for a couple of hours as a precaution.
The fire’s proximity to the Coldstream Fire Hall meant that many volunteer firefighters had to navigate Aberdeen as flames licked at the trees and some local residents were attempting to stop traffic along Aberdeen Road.
The next morning, Coldstream’s Fire Chief, a fire investigator, and a FireSmart representative assessed the aftermath.
Despite the intense flames, daylight revealed only a small clump of cedar trees had burned underscoreing the significant fire risk posed by a few dry trees during the summer months.
No injuries or structural damage were reported. A car parked on the property near the trees sustained damage.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Tree Fire in Coldstream Highlights Risk of Dry Trees
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