The Mount Jack wildfire in the Sooke Hills remains an active concern in the region, with smoke visible from communities around southern Vancouver Island as firefighters continue responding to the blaze.

The wildfire, identified as V62262, was discovered on September 20 and has been attracting attention because of its location in the Sooke Hills and the visible smoke being reported from surrounding communities. Reports have indicated that the fire has grown significantly, although the latest size figure should be treated as subject to change as crews continue assessing the incident.

The District of Sooke confirmed on September 22, 2026, that the Mount Jack wildfire is outside the district’s boundaries and currently poses no danger to Sooke homes. Officials nevertheless continue to monitor the situation as fire conditions remain challenging.

Mount Jack Wildfire and Smoke Conditions

Smoke from wildfires in the Sooke Hills can be visible from considerable distances, meaning residents may see smoke even when a fire is not located within their immediate community.

The District of Sooke has emphasized that the presence of smoke does not by itself indicate that homes in Sooke are under threat. Residents are encouraged to rely on official emergency information rather than assuming that visible smoke represents an immediate danger to their properties.

Fire conditions in the area remain serious. The District of Sooke says the fire danger rating remains extreme, while its local burning ban continues to be in effect.

Firefighters Continue Monitoring the Situation

Firefighting resources are continuing to assess conditions around the Mount Jack wildfire and work toward controlling the fire. Wildfire behaviour can change quickly depending on wind, temperature, terrain and vegetation conditions.

Residents and visitors should avoid entering active firefighting areas and should not interfere with crews or aircraft involved in suppression operations.

At the time of the latest Sooke municipal update, there was no evacuation order reported for Sooke homes in connection with the Mount Jack wildfire. The district continues to encourage residents to remain informed through official emergency channels because wildfire conditions can change rapidly.

The situation remains developing, and additional information about the Mount Jack wildfire, its size, containment and firefighting operations may be released as crews continue their response.

For anyone in or around Sooke, the latest official information should be followed closely, particularly while fire danger remains at an extreme level.