Pear Lake wildfire now 124,656 hectares as hot, dry conditions return to Cariboo
The massive fire grew significantly as temperatures climbed to 28°C. Eight evacuation orders remain in effect for the region.
Sources · local media reports
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The Pear Lake wildfire in the Cariboo region has grown to 124,656 hectares as of 4 p.m. on August 4, with hot and dry conditions expected to fuel further fire activity this week.
After a brief period of cooler, more humid weather, warmer and drier conditions are returning to the South Cariboo. The BC Wildfire Service anticipates fire behaviour will increase as fuels dry out, with temperatures expected to reach 28°C on Wednesday. Strong winds are not forecast, but the combination of heat and lower humidity poses significant risk.
Eight evacuation orders and four alerts remain in effect for the area. Fire is progressing more slowly in the southwest near Pear Lake, where it is burning within an old wildfire scar with sparse fuels, though BCWS notes it remains active due to northerly winds.
On Monday, ignition operations were completed along the north flank near 70 Mile, bringing the fire perimeter to an established control line. This is described as critical for containing a long, non-contained section of the fire's edge. Structure protection personnel continue prioritizing work in and around active fire zones, including the Village of Clinton, 70 Mile, Canoe Creek, Meadow Lake Road, Beaverdam Lake and Green Lake.
As of Tuesday morning, 238 firefighting personnel, 95 pieces of heavy equipment and 213 structure protection personnel are assigned to the fire, with 24 helicopters supporting the larger Big Bar Complex.
When do officials expect evacuation orders to be downgraded or lifted?
How many homes and structures are currently threatened across the evacuation zones?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
By the numbers
How large is the Pear Lake wildfire as of August 4, 2026?
The Pear Lake wildfire in the Cariboo region has grown to 124,656 hectares as of 4 p.m. on August 4, 2026.
How many evacuation orders are in effect for the Pear Lake fire area?
Eight evacuation orders remain in effect for the Cariboo region affected by the Pear Lake wildfire.
How many firefighting personnel are assigned to the Pear Lake fire as of Tuesday, August 5?
As of Tuesday, August 4, 2026, 238 firefighting personnel and 213 structure protection personnel are assigned to the fire, supported by 95 pieces of heavy equipment and 24 helicopters.
