Post-Wildfire Natural Hazard Risk Analysis Reconnaissance Report - Briggs Creek, Glacier Creek and Monument Creek wildfires

Nelson, BC:  The Province of British Columbia’s Ministry of Forests, has released post wildfire natural hazard risk analysis reconnaissance reports for the Briggs Creek, Glacier Creek and Monument Creek wildfires. All three wildfires are located within the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK). These reports contain information on potential increased hazards and risks following a wildfire, such as downslope and downstream risks to life, property and infrastructure. To view the reports along with reports form previous emergencies, click www.rdck.ca/hazardreports

Following a wildfire, the chances of soil erosion, landslides, and floods can increase. This risk can be enhanced with intense rainfall or rapid snowmelt. Wildfire can also cause snow avalanches and may affect water quality, cause erosion and result in sedimentation. To better understand the risk, the Ministry of Forests conducts post wildfire analysis of the hazard areas that pose an increased risk to public safety, significant improvements or infrastructure. 

Along with reviewing this report and the links provided in this publication, residents are invited to start thinking about fall and winter emergency preparedness with the enhanced potential for severe weather events that can lead to damaged infrastructure, floods, landslides and prolonged power outages. A key element of being prepared is to understand the risk and have adequate home insurance along with an emergency plan that encompasses all your household’s occupants, including your pets.

The Briggs Creek wildfire, west of Kaslo, was first discovered at high elevation on Mount Kemp on August 1st and is estimated to be 2,160 hectares. The cause of the fire is believed to be lightning. The majority of this fire has burned in extremely steep and mountainous terrain and at this time, the Briggs Creek wildfire is considered as “being held” by the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS). The RDCK issued an Evacuation Alert from August 1st to the 22nd for 14 properties on Kaslo Creek South Fork Road.

The Glacier Creek wildfire, north of Meadow Creek, is estimated to be 139 hectares. The cause of the fire is believed to be lightning and at this time, the fire is considered as “being held” by BCWS.

The Monument Creek Wildfire, 12 km north of Nelson and near the community of Six Mile, is estimated to be 660 hectares. The cause of the fire is believed to be lightning and at this time, the fire is considered as “being held” by BCWS.

The RDCK encourages residents to remain prepared for unexpected events or emergencies by making a plan and having a household emergency kit and a grab and go bag. As well, it is recommended for residents to exercise extreme caution in areas below recent wildfires and near creeks. Following a wildfire, the likelihood of the occurrence of landslides, erosion, floods and snow avalanches within or downslope of the burned area can increase.

For more information about emergency preparedness, along with other resources:

 Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

The content on this page was last updated November 1 2022 at 3:57 AM