Crowther Road wildfire (V50401) response update – Monday, May 25, 2026, 4:00 p.m.
Okeover, BC (4:00 p.m.) – The qathet Regional District reports that the Crowther Road fire continues to be held, with no further growth observed. Crews have successfully contained the fire on all sides, and the initial burn phase is now complete. While the fire’s initial burn has occurred, the public is advised that the site still is experiencing small vegetation burns along the steep, inaccessible areas. Equipment will remain on site, with regular site monitoring occurring until fire officials have declared the site safe for full demobilization.
This remains an active fire site. The public is asked to avoid the area to ensure clear access for emergency responders and hydro crews. Access along Crowther Road is restricted to local traffic only, allowing residents to reach their properties.
“We are confident that we have contained this fire and are happy to report that the improvements and structures in the surrounding area have been protected,” said Ryan Thoms, General Manager of Emergency Services. “We are saddened to report that one structure was initially lost, and our condolences go out to the family impacted by this structure loss and appreciate the owner’s cooperation throughout this incident. The qathet Regional District is working with a provincially appointed fire investigator to assess this incident, and a report will be presented to the Board in a closed session to protect the privacy of those impacted.”
“Incidents like this highlight how much our success depends on the strength of our first responder network and our community’s ongoing commitment to fire training,” said Northside Volunteer Fire Chief Yves Perreault. “We sincerely thank the Tla’amin Nation Fire Department, Powell River Fire Rescue, and the Malaspina Volunteer Fire Department for their swift support. Their assistance to the Northside Volunteer Fire Department was essential in getting this fire to a held position. Our crews are tired but are continuing to provide suppression and fire protection and making considerable progress.”
The qathet Regional District extends its sincere appreciation to the residents directly affected by this incident for their cooperation with emergency response crews. We acknowledge the very real fear that comes with a fire so close to home, and despite this, neighbours and the wider community showed exceptional resilience and generosity. Crews on site were grateful for the refreshments provided, as well as for residents respecting roadway clearances and property access needed to carry out critical suppression efforts.
For those that require Emergency Support Services, please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-888-800-6493.
As the fire moves into the recovery phase, property owners will be informed of recommended recommendation actions for improving wildfire resiliency in future. All residents are encouraged to utilize our regional FireSmart program and review our helpful brochures to help reduce wildfire risk on your properties. To view the program and request a free FireSmart Assessment, please follow this link: https://qathet.ca/services/emergency-services/regional-firesmart-program/
For up-to-date status of this wildfire, please visit the BC Wildfire Service Map, located at: https://wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca/incidents?fireYear=2026&incidentNumber=V50401&source=map. Media inquiries can be directed to Ryan Thoms, General Manager of Emergency Services.
Further updates will be provided as necessary and will be posted to qathet.ca and our @qathetRD Facebook page. Please note that communications may be delayed due to limited cell service in the area, which may impact the timing of updates. We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding.
About the Northside Volunteer Fire Department:
The Northside Volunteer Fire Department is operated by a small group of dedicated volunteers who give their time to train and respond to fires, emergency medical calls, and other public safety concerns in Electoral Area A which includes Lund and surrounding area. To learn more about the Northside Volunteer Fire Department and qathet Regional District Fire Protection services, please visit qathet.ca/fire-protection-services.
About the qathet Regional District:
The qathet Regional District serves the rural areas from Lund to sḵelhp (Saltery Bay), the City of Powell River, Texada Island, Savary Island, and Lasqueti Island. The qRD provides some services, through contract, to Tla’amin Nation. To learn more please visit qathet.ca.
CONTACT:
Ryan Thoms, General Manager of Emergency Services
#202 – 4675 Marine Avenue
Powell River, BC V8A 2L2
P: 604∙485∙2260 | E: emergency@qathet.ca