Cool temperatures aid in Vancouver Island wildfire fight, but warm weather to return

Firefighters battle the Mount Underwood blaze on Vancouver Island on Aug. 14, 2025. (B.C. Wildfire Service)

Rain and cooler temperatures have slowed the spread of an out-of-control wildfire on Vancouver Island, though officials say warmer, drier days in the forecast could bring a resurgence in fire activity.

The Mount Underwood fire has burned an area measuring 36.71 square kilometres in size, triggering evacuation orders and alerts south of Port Alberni, B.C.

The B.C. Wildfire Service says the fire area has received 36 millimetres of rainfall since Thursday, with the precipitation reducing the blaze to a mostly smouldering ground fire with some open flames visible.

“Today, overcast skies and moderate temperatures are expected, with additional rainfall forecast for tomorrow,” the wildfire service said in an update Monday morning.

“Looking ahead, a warming and drying trend is expected to begin mid-week. While this may lead to an increase in fire behaviour, activity is not expected to return to the levels observed during the first 48 hours of the fire.”

The earliest days of the fire, which was first discovered on Aug. 11, saw explosive growth as the blaze, fueled by winds and tinder-dry conditions, quickly consumed the surrounding forest.

The fire has cut off electricity and main road access for more than 500 residents in the community of Bamfield, southwest of Port Alberni.

The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District estimates it could take up to two weeks to restore power to the area, which includes the Huu-ay-aht First Nation and the Ditidaht First Nation.

Evacuation orders remain in place for properties on the east side of the Alberni Inlet, while evacuation alerts are in effect for some Tseshaht reserve lands and properties in the Cameron Heights area of Port Alberni.

BC Hydro says 76 personnel were working Sunday to remove damaged power poles and clear debris from roadways as they prepare to replace the electricity infrastructure in the area.

Approximately 160 wildland firefighters are currently assigned to the Mount Underwood blaze, along with 21 pieces of heavy equipment, eight structure protection personnel and 10 helicopters, the wildfire service said.

The cause of the blaze is still under investigation.

The fire was one of about 80 wildfires burning in B.C. on Monday, with five fires classified as out of control.