What caused the Telegraph Cove fire?

A massive fire on New Year's Eve, December 31, 2024, destroyed several key establishments in Telegraph Cove.

How is the Telegraph Cove community rebuilding after the fire?

The community is receiving widespread support, including donations of marine mammal skeletons, to rebuild the Whale Interpretive Centre and other facilities.

When will Telegraph Cove reopen after the fire?

The goal is to reopen the museum and other parts of Telegraph Cove by May 1, 2026.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Northern lights shine on rebuilding efforts after Telegraph Cove fire

Northern lights shine on rebuilding efforts after Telegraph Cove fire

1 Jan

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Summary

A New Year's Eve fire destroyed Telegraph Cove's Whale Interpretive Centre.
Community support has poured in with donations of marine mammal skeletons.
Rebuilding efforts aim for a May 1, 2026, reopening of the resort.

A massive New Year's Eve fire on December 31, 2024, ravaged the quaint tourist resort of Telegraph Cove, British Columbia, destroying the Whale Interpretive Centre, a local pub, and the Prince of Whales whale-watching firm's office. Residents Mary and Jim Borrowman, founders of the center, found solace in the spectacular northern lights that graced the sky on January 1, 2025, viewing it as a sign to persevere.

The community has responded with incredible support, with offers and donations of marine mammal skeletons flooding in from across Canada. This includes a rare Bryde's whale found in Port McNeill, now undergoing cleaning by Cetacea Contracting. Institutions like Pearson College and the University of Victoria have also contributed valuable specimens, showcasing a united front in the rebuilding process.