A small wildfire west of Nanaimo was sparked overnight Wednesday, May 13, with crews on scene to limit spread. More crews are expected Thursday. (Image Credit: BC Wildfire Service)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

quick response

UPDATE: New wildfire near Nanaimo Lakes Rd. being held

May 14, 2026 | 8:54 AM

NANAIMO — Coastal Fire Centre crews spent the night actioning a new wildfire start west of the city, with a quick response leading to a swift resolution.

Reported late Wednesday, May 13, the fire burning just north of Nanaimo Lakes Rd., near the intersection with South Forks Rd., is now classified as being held at around 1.5 hectares just before midday on Thursday, May 14.

Initial attack crews, heavy equipment, and a Fire Centre officer worked through the night and into Thursday morning on the scene.

Additional crews and a helicopter attended Thursday morning to aid in the response.

It’s believed to be human-caused and is less than a kilometre north of an under-control wildfire discovered a week ago.

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A “being held” classification means crews were able to contain the situation and no further growth is expected.

Staff will remain on-site monitoring for any hot spots until it can be fully doused and considered either extinguished or “under control.”

The fire is the latest in a string of small starts on Vancouver Island already this season.

A campfire ban issued earlier this month is being lifted beginning Friday at Noon for most areas of the Coastal Fire Centre, owing to cooler temperatures and more humidity.

While most fire jurisdictions have also lifted their seasonal bans, in accordance with the Coastal Fire Centre, some remain in effect.

The North Oyster Volunteer Fire Department confirmed Wednesday all open burning will remain prohibited in their zone.

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by NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

UPDATE: New wildfire near Nanaimo Lakes Rd. being held

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