After losing power and being cut off from the main route to Port Alberni, the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District (ACRD) asked people to avoid travelling to Bamfield while the community was facing those stresses. More than a week after the fire broke out, Bamfield is welcoming visitors back to the historic west coast community.
While the power may be out for up to two more weeks, the business community in Bamfield wanted to be able to welcome people back before the summer ends.
鈥淲ith the fire more contained, we are once again welcoming visitors and vacationers back into our beautiful community to enjoy our world class fishing, kayaking and hiking,鈥� said Bob Beckett, ACRD director for the Bamfield area in a news release. 鈥淥ur community is grateful to our BC Wildland Firefighters, BC Hydro, and everyone who has worked around the clock to support those communities who have been impacted by the fire.鈥�
Some businesses in the area may not be ready to reopen and those planning to stay in the community overnight should ensure their accommodations are confirmed.
The Bamfield Main Road remains closed, meaning the only overland way to the community by land is the Youbou Road route, through Lake Cowichan. The road is not in good condition, although the ACRD said a grader has been working on it, and those travelling through it should prepare for something to go wrong. There have been many incidences flat tires on the road since it became the only route.
People should bring a spare tire and know how to change it and bring additional food and water and blankets in case they are stranded. Cell service is unreliable in the area so it is advised people let someone know when they leave and arrive. Drivers should also be on alert for wildlife while driving the road and yield to industrial traffic.
The MV Frances Barkley is still sailing between Port Alberni and Bamfield. Schedule and ticketing information can be found online at .
The regional district said they will monitor the situation in Bamfield and determine if welcoming people back is negatively affecting the community and its supply of goods.