20000 British Columbians isolated by fire access a long and

20,000 British Columbians isolated by fire access a long and difficult diversion

The diversion will direct traffic from Port Alberni through Bamfield and along logging roads and private industrial roads to Lake Cowichan.

The gravel detour route features tight sections, tight turns, single lane bridges and difficult terrain. There is no cellphone service, gas stations or restrooms on this road, the province warned in a statement.

She points out that this route adds four hours to the journey and strongly recommends delaying the journey if possible.

Route 4 is the only public road connecting Tofino, Ucluelet and Port Alberni to the rest of the island.

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Map of Vancouver Island where we can find the closed section of Route 4, the cities of Tofino, Ucluelet and Port Alberni and the road detour through Bamfield.

Passenger cars, vans and commercial vehicles weighing under 14,500 kilograms can use the detour route for compelling reasons, but heavy commercial vehicles cannot, the country adds.

She urges motorists who must travel to be prepared and have patience. You are encouraged to refuel, bring food and water to be prepared for high temperatures, and be aware that conditions can change quickly.

Aerial view of the Cameron Bluffs fire.

The Cameron Bluffs Fire was among about 80 active wildfires in British Columbia on Wednesday.

Photo: BC Wildfire

The Cameron Bluffs wildfire, believed to be caused by human activity, was discovered on Saturday and now covers 140 hectares. It burns west of Highway 4 near Cameron Lake, 16 miles east of Port Alberni.

With hot and dry conditions affecting the entire province, campfire bans are in place across much of British Columbia starting Thursday.

A forest fire that causes many concerns in Port Alberni

ICI PREMIERE PROGRAM • Panorama

Aerial view of the Cameron Bluffs fire.

A forest fire that causes many concerns in Port Alberni. 10-minute audio content, ICI premiere show. listen to audio.

Duration 10 minutes09:47

This includes all fires less than half a meter in size, but does not apply to the use of outdoor kilns.

The ban applies to the entire South Shore, including Vancouver Island, and the areas covered by the Prince George, Kamloops and Cariboo Fire Centers, as well as certain areas of the Northwest Fire Center.