A video circulating on social media now reveals the true scale of the Clinton wildfire that forced an entire village to flee. The footage shows the aftermath of a blaze that pushed through the community and its outskirts, leaving behind scorched land and damaged property. Local officials have confirmed that while the village centre largely survived, several structures nearby did not.

The Clinton wildfire, known as the Pear Lake fire, triggered a full evacuation of the village on Friday. Since then, residents have been anxiously waiting for updates on their homes and businesses. This new video offers the clearest look yet at what the fire left behind.

What The Video Reveals About The Clinton Wildfire

The footage was shot through the window of a moving pickup truck. It shows a smouldering field of blackened dirt and gravel, littered with scorched metal, vehicles, and equipment. Downed power lines line the side of the road, adding to the scene of destruction.

Steve Larabie, owner of Steve’s Towing and Autobody, said someone sent him the video. It captures part of his property, located three kilometres south of Clinton. Consequently, the footage hits close to home for him and his family.

Larabie and his wife, along with their children, son-in-law, and two grandchildren, made it out safely before the fire arrived. However, he said they “lost everything” when the Pear Lake fire roared in. He told The Canadian Press on Saturday that he didn’t know who originally filmed the video.

Meanwhile, the emotional weight of the moment is clear. Losing a family business and property in such a short span is devastating for any household. Still, the fact that everyone escaped unharmed offers some relief amid the wreckage.

Village Of Clinton Assesses Damage After The Fire

The BC Wildfire Service hadn’t posted any photos of the Clinton area since last Thursday, the day before the wildfire surged. However, on Monday, the service shared several new images from the region. One recent photo, dated Monday, shows smoke drifting through the forested hills around Clinton.

Notably, residential areas within the village itself appear intact in that image. This aligns with earlier reports that the town centre was largely spared from the worst damage. Nevertheless, officials caution that a full assessment is still needed before residents can know for certain.

The village posted a statement to its Facebook page on Monday. Staff expected to begin assessing the damage over the following day or two. Affected property owners would be contacted directly once inspections were complete.

This waiting period is often the hardest part for evacuees. Therefore, clear communication from local officials becomes essential during these early recovery stages. Residents want answers, and village staff are working to provide them as quickly as possible.

How The Fire Grew And Spread

The Pear Lake fire forced the evacuation of Clinton on Friday. The very next day, it merged with another blaze nearby. As a result, the combined fire grew to span more than 600 square kilometres, a dramatic increase in just 48 hours.

This rapid growth prompted an expanded evacuation order for the community of 70 Mile House on Monday. That town sits about 30 kilometres north of Clinton. Consequently, the danger zone now covers a much wider stretch of the region than initially expected.

Wildfires that merge like this often become harder to predict and control. Additionally, dry conditions and shifting winds can accelerate their spread within hours. Firefighting crews must then adapt quickly to protect multiple communities at once.

Community Bracing For “Tragic Stories”

Nicolas Kosovic, a councillor with the village of Clinton, said there would be some “tragic stories” as structural losses are confirmed. His comment reflects the uncertainty still facing many families in the area. Some may return to find their homes gone.

“I know everyone is speculating. Certainly, I was thinking about what happened to my house,” Kosovic said in an interview on Monday. He added that he had just received word that his house was still standing as of Sunday night. This personal detail highlights just how uncertain the situation remains for even local leadership.

Kosovic’s experience mirrors that of many residents right now. In fact, uncertainty is often the most difficult part of an active wildfire event. Families check phones for updates, hoping for good news about their properties.

The Road To Recovery For Clinton Residents

Recovery after a wildfire like this takes time, patience, and coordination. Local officials must first ensure the area is safe before allowing residents back in. Then, damage assessments can begin in earnest, guiding what support each family will need.

For business owners like Steve Larabie, rebuilding will likely mean navigating insurance claims and replacing lost equipment. Meanwhile, families displaced from their homes may need temporary housing support. Community organizations often step in during these early weeks to help.

The Clinton wildfire has already reshaped daily life for hundreds of residents. Still, the safe evacuation of families like the Larabies shows that quick action can save lives even when property cannot be saved. That distinction matters greatly to those affected.

As assessments continue this week, more clarity should emerge about the full scope of the damage. Village staff have promised direct contact with affected property owners. Until then, the community continues to watch, wait, and support one another through the uncertainty.