A one-hectare fire was reported burning near Taylor Arm Park about 15 kilometres west of Port Alberni on Saturday night.
The B.C. Wildfire Service said the fire was located on a steep slope beside Highway 4, which connects Port Alberni to Tofino and the west coast of Vancouver Island. No buildings were immediately threatened.
The service said aircraft were dropping water on the fire to slow its growth and firefighting crews were headed to the site or already there. Local fire department staff and equipment were assisting.
It’s believed the fire was caused by humans and is under investigation, the service said.
Highway 4 about 20 kilometres west of Port Alberni was closed for several hours, fully reopening just before 8 p.m. Motorists were warned to drive carefully and expect delays.
