PORT ALBERNI — Firefighters on Vancouver Island report that overnight rain has helped to calm a significant wildfire near Port Alberni, British Columbia. The BC Wildfire Service indicated that approximately seven millimeters of rain fell overnight, which has reduced the Mount Underwood blaze to primarily a smoldering ground fire.

In an update, officials noted that an additional 30 millimeters of rain is expected today. However, they cautioned that this amount will not be sufficient to fully extinguish the fire. The rain may also lead to slope stability issues, increasing the risk of rockfalls and hazardous trees.

The Mount Underwood fire has expanded to over 34 square kilometers this week. At times, it exhibited aggressive behavior that the BC Wildfire Service described as "unusual" for the region. Fortunately, conditions moderated on Thursday.

The wildfire has disrupted power and road access to Bamfield, located about 200 kilometers northwest of Victoria. Parks Canada has begun to limit access to the popular West Coast Trail in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve due to the fire's impact.

The wildfire service stated, "While rain and cooler conditions are expected, this will not completely suppress the fire, although it is expected to reduce fire behavior and assist in slowing growth, dependent on how much rain we receive."

In response to the situation, the Huu-ay-aht First Nations has canceled all reservations in Bamfield until Tuesday, and local businesses are not accepting new reservations during this period. Additionally, the City of Port Alberni has opened a relief center for residents seeking refuge from the smoke and heat.

Currently, about 80 wildfires are active across British Columbia, with six classified as out of control.