Wildfire closes part of Sea to Sky Highway near Horseshoe Bay (VIDEO/PHOTOS)

[Get this story and more like it delivered directly to your inbox. Subscribe to Daily Hive’s Newsletter now!]

A wildfire burning near Horseshoe Bay has forced the closure of the northbound lanes of the Sea to Sky Highway.

See also

• Rock climber dies after falling from the Chief in Squamish
• IHIT reveals names of men charged in Kiran Dhesi Murder

The forest fire broke out Sunday morning between Horseshoe Bay and Lions Bay Sunday morning and was visible from the highway, with large plumes of smoke in the air.

DNV Fire Rescue Services is on scene.

Shortly before 10 am, it was estimated the fire was approximately a hectare in size. The cause remains unknown.

Video shared to social media shows flames just off the shoulder of the highway.

BC’s Ministry of Transportation says northbound traffic is being diverted into the southbound lane at Ansell Place, and there is one lane of traffic in both direction.

Vancouver Fire said the wildfire is a good reminder that the fire hazard in the region is currently considered “high.”

The wildfire burning near Horseshoe Bay is a clear reminder that vegetation is DRY & the fire hazard is HIGH. It’s more critical the ever to place used smoking material (butts) in an ashtray or designated receptacle. We don’t need to bring up the fines….but ya, there are fines. pic.twitter.com/jFWwIZEkNi

— Vancouver Fire (@VanFireRescue) June 23, 2019

Earlier this morning #seatosky @NEWS1130 pic.twitter.com/JfZu4cp4iI

— Nar SJ (@Nammynamzzz) June 23, 2019

Not the view that we were hoping to see this morning. Stay safe!#wildfire #horseshoebay #lionsbay #seatosky #westvan #westvancouver pic.twitter.com/wPH1DmXghJ

— Trolls Restaurant (@TrollsWestVan) June 23, 2019

Northbound Sea to Sky closed now. Quite close to our house! pic.twitter.com/UJyB1KscoQ

— Phil (@phil2132003) June 23, 2019

sea to sky fully closed at Seascape Dr Ansell pt. due to the wildfire. @NEWS1130 pic.twitter.com/8XUNdJUiZZ

— nadya calderón (@nanacalderon) June 23, 2019

Heli’s working the sea to sky fire…north bound 99 closed pic.twitter.com/AtiiKXfYEd

— Brent Middleton (@brntmiddleton) June 23, 2019