The Saw Creek wildfire continues to burn near Lytton, British Columbia, as the community approaches the deadly anniversary of the 2021 fire that destroyed the village. As of June 21, 2026, the fire remains active, with crews working to contain the blaze.
Current Status of the Fire
The wildfire, which ignited on June 20, 2026, is burning in the area around Saw Creek, just outside Lytton. According to the BC Wildfire Service, the fire is estimated at 1,200 hectares and is classified as out of control. Approximately 100 firefighters are on site, supported by helicopters and air tankers. No evacuation orders have been issued yet, but residents are advised to be prepared.
Historical Context
The fire comes as the community marks five years since the devastating 2021 Lytton wildfire, which destroyed most of the village and killed two people. That fire, which began on June 30, 2021, burned over 90% of Lytton's structures and led to a state of emergency. The anniversary has heightened concerns among residents, many of whom are still rebuilding.
Community Impact
Local officials are urging caution. Lytton Mayor Denise O'Connor stated, "We are watching the situation closely. Our community has been through so much, and we are prepared to act if necessary." The fire has not yet threatened structures, but smoke has reduced air quality in the area. The BC Wildfire Service expects challenging conditions due to hot, dry weather forecast for the coming days.
Response Efforts
Firefighters are focusing on building containment lines and protecting key infrastructure. The province has deployed additional resources, including incident management teams. The fire's cause is under investigation, but officials suspect it may be human-caused, as no lightning was reported in the area.
