Sooke wildfire ash begins falling over Saanich Peninsula

Residents across parts of the Saanich Peninsula and other parts of Greater Victoria may wake up Wednesday morning to find their vehicles, patios and outdoor furniture covered in a fine layer of ash.

Wildfire ash began falling over parts of the region Tuesday evening as smoke from the Mount Jack wildfire near Sooke continued to spread across Greater Victoria.

Environment Canada was forecasting southwest winds of around 20 km/h Tuesday evening. That wind direction can carry smoke and lightweight debris from the Sooke area toward the Saanich Peninsula.

While BC Wildfire Service has not issued a separate advisory for falling ash, it said smoke from the fire would remain visible throughout Greater Victoria and the South Cowichan Valley.

The Mount Jack wildfire, identified as V62262, remained classified as out of control and was estimated at 100 hectares as of BC Wildfire Service’s 4:23 p.m. update Tuesday.

An out-of-control classification means the wildfire is spreading, or is expected to spread, beyond its current perimeter or established control lines.

The fire is burning approximately four kilometres west of the Sooke River and south of Mount Jack. It was discovered Sunday afternoon and is suspected to have been caused by human activity.

The wildfire has grown rapidly since Monday. It was estimated at 35 hectares Monday evening before increasing to 50 hectares Tuesday morning and doubling again to 100 hectares by Tuesday afternoon.

According to the latest response update, the fire displayed vigorous behaviour Monday afternoon as warm, dry and windy conditions moved through the area.

Initial growth was observed toward the northeast and up the rocky slope of Mount Jack. Additional growth has since been reported along the slope toward the west and southeast.

Multiple firefighting crews are responding with support from helicopters and heavy equipment. Aircraft involved in the response may continue to be visible from surrounding communities.

Despite the rapid growth and increasingly widespread smoke, BC Wildfire Service said the fire does not currently pose a threat to public safety or critical infrastructure.

No area restrictions were listed for the wildfire as of Tuesday evening, and no evacuation alerts or orders had been issued.

Some relief could arrive overnight.

Environment Canada is forecasting rain in Sooke Tuesday night, followed by a 40% chance of showers Wednesday morning. Skies are expected to clear around noon, with northwest winds of 20 km/h and a high of 16°C.

BC Wildfire Service said lower temperatures and possible precipitation should help moderate fire activity and support ongoing suppression efforts.

Despite the falling ash, the Victoria and Saanich Air Quality Health Index remained at 2, or low risk, at 6 p.m. Tuesday. The forecast calls for a maximum of 3 Tuesday night and 2 throughout Wednesday.

Conditions can vary between neighbourhoods and change quickly when winds shift. Anyone who smells smoke or experiences coughing, throat irritation or other symptoms should consider limiting their time outdoors and continue monitoring local air-quality information.

Residents are also being asked to remain clear of the wildfire area and avoid interfering with firefighting crews and aircraft.