45 p.

m.

, fire crews rushed to battle the aggressive wildfire that erupted in the tinder-dry river valley and quickly spread up to Mackenzie Avenue, where it threatened local businesses.

Rob Warnock, director of the EOC, said it is believed the fire was started when a tree fell on a power line in the river valley.

Strong winds quickly fanned the flames.

Members of the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) and Williams Lake Fire Department (WLFD), along with support from the Wildwood and 150 Mile volunteer fire departments, responded to the fire.

During the early moments of the fire, members of the Williams Lake RCMP conducted tactical evacuations as a precaution.

There are currently no evacuation orders.

Air support from the BCWS was quick to assist with air tankers followed by helicopters fighting the blaze until almost dark.

The conditions have been extremely hot, dry, and windy.

Thick smoke, with some black plumes, was highly visible from all areas of town.

Several explosions could be heard when the fire reached Mackenzie Avenue, and there are reports of vehicles being burned.

Williams Lake RCMP are asking residents to continue to stay away from Mackenzie Avenue and surrounding areas, and have since blocked it off at Highway 20.

Please avoid the area.

Declaring a local state of emergency allows the city to undertake emergency measures to respond to and limit any damages to health, safety, and property.

In a late-night news release, the city noted it is continuing to work with all relevant agencies, including RCMP and the BC Wildfire Service, and is providing support as necessary.

The city is asking residents to conserve as much water as possible and turn off any lawn sprinklers or field irrigation to ensure an adequate water supply for emergency crews.