British Columbia’s Auditor General has announced plans to review the provincial government’s response to the devastating 2021 Lytton wildfire. The announcement comes after the small town of Lytton was completely destroyed by the wildfire, which was fueled by record-breaking heat and strong winds.
The Auditor General’s office will be conducting a performance audit to assess the government’s preparedness and response to the wildfire. This includes examining the actions taken by the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, as well as other agencies involved in the emergency response.
The review will also look into the government’s communication and coordination with local authorities and First Nations communities during the wildfire. This is an important aspect, as many residents and Indigenous communities were forced to evacuate with little to no warning.
Auditor General Michael Pickup stated that the review will provide valuable insights into the government’s response to the wildfire and identify any areas for improvement. He also emphasized the importance of learning from this tragic event to better prepare for future emergencies.
The Lytton wildfire, which started on June 30, 2021, quickly spread and destroyed 90% of the town within hours. The fire also claimed the lives of two people and forced thousands to evacuate their homes. It is considered one of the most destructive wildfires in British Columbia’s history.
The Auditor General’s review is expected to be completed by the end of 2021 and will be made public. This will provide transparency and accountability for the government’s actions during the wildfire.
In response to the announcement, the provincial government has stated that they will fully cooperate with the Auditor General’s office and provide any necessary information for the review.
The devastating impact of the Lytton wildfire serves as a reminder of the importance of effective emergency preparedness and response. The Auditor General’s review will play a crucial role in identifying any gaps and ensuring that the government is better equipped to handle future emergencies.
