Mount Jack Fire Near Sooke Doubles Again to Over 200 Hectares

The out-of-control Mount Jack wildfire west of Sooke, BC kept doubling in size through the week: after reaching about 100 hectares Sept 22 afternoon, BC Wildfire Service's Wednesday morning (Sept 23) update put it at 210.4 hectares. Initial growth ran northeast up the rocky slope of Mount Jack, with additional spread reported cross-slope to the west and southeast, fuelled by warm, dry and windy conditions. Still no evacuation orders or alerts have been issued and BC Wildfire Service says the fire poses no threat to structures or critical infrastructure; multiple crews, helicopters and heavy equipment remain assigned. Smoke continues to affect Greater Victoria and the South Cowichan Valley, with lower temperatures and possible rain forecast later in the week to moderate activity.