When Vicky Murphy moved just outside Port Alberni on Vancouver Island two years ago, she never anticipated a wildfire would close a vital route into town, setting off her family’s teeth-jarring journey down a forestry back road to get out.
As a self-employed seamstress who makes clothes to sell at summer vendors' markets and festivals in various locations, Murphy couldn't risk being stuck at home during her most lucrative time of year.
Transportation Minister Rob Fleming said during an update on the highway that the route had to be closed because of the danger of trees and rocks falling from the steep slope where the fire burned above. "They were flying past me, so it's just like, hold your breath, shut your eyes, and just hope that they stay on their side of the road," she said."That was the scariest thing."
On the other side of the island, the highway closure is already devastating the tourism hub of Tofino and other communities. Parsell said he was grateful the detour route allows for the flow of essential goods like food, medicine, and gas, but it's"heart wrenching to watch our business community have to go through something like this again so soon after the disruptions of the pandemic."
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