Wildfire forces evacuations in the North Peace

A suspected human caused wildfire in the North Peace remains out of control.

A suspected human caused wildfire was discovered near Fish Creek on May 1st, which prompted immediate evacuations in the area.

The blaze was first discovered around 4 pm when residents reported seeing a large plume of smoke in the wooded area behind the college, and had grown to 56 hectares by 8 pm.

The East Bypass was quickly backed up with traffic, making it difficult for responders as they rushed to the scene while the smoke from the fire could be seen for miles.

BC Wildfire Service Crews are battling the blaze alongside the Fort St. John, Charlie Lake and Taylor Fire Departments while an airtanker group and two helicopters are responding to the wildfire in the air.

Updates will follow.