Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, said 2,750 people had been evacuated from their homes across the province as of Wednesday afternoon.
The Ministry of Transportation said the detour remains in place for commercial vehicles and people who must travel, however, it adds four hours on to the journey.
Even then, the highway will only be open to single-lane alternating traffic for “some time,” as crews need time to clear debris and trees and make sure the road is safe.
The shutdown of Vancouver Island's Highway 4 due to wildfire is a concern as it is the only major route connecting Port Alberni with the rest of the island, beyond logging roads.
The shutdown of Vancouver Island’s Highway 4 due to wildfire is a concern as it is the only major route connecting Port Alberni with the rest of the island, beyond logging roads.