The Old Man Lake Fire burning near the Sooke Potholes continues to grow.
The BC Wildfire Service says it has scorched an estimated 80 hectares, up from 50 hectares in size on Tuesday.
The fire, suspected to be human-caused, is being attacked by a number of crews on the ground and by three helicopters overhead. Four initial attack crews along with a 10-person Capital Regional District Parks fire crew are working with air support. The BC Wildfire Service says "boaters on Shawnigan lake may see water scooping aircraft filling. All boaters are required to dock immediately if aircraft are operating on the lake as any obstruction to approach, filling and departures will cause the mission to be aborted."
The BC Wildfire Service has named first major fire on Vancouver Island this year the Old Man Lake Fire -- after a small nearby lake.
Environment Canada has issued an Air Quality Statement on wildfire smoke blanketing the region.
C-FAX listeners across Greater Victoria say smoke is thick in some areas.
The CRD says the Sooke Potholes Regional Park remains closed.
Access to Kapoor Regional Park and the Galloping Goose Regional Trail in the area also remains off-limits.
Visitors should avoid accessing the area through other regional parks.
The Spring Salmon Place Campground, evacuated Monday after the fire broke out, also remains closed.
The District of Sooke, in coordination with the Capital Regional District and T’Sou-ke Nation, issued the following instructions for evacuated campers who need to collect their belongings:
Check-In: Campers must check in at the Sooke Potholes Gateway, located before the first parking lot and gate.
Escorted Site Visit: Upon check-in, campers will be escorted to their campsite and are required to promptly clear all belongings.
Exit the Park: After collecting their belongings, campers will be escorted out of the park.