The latest East Kootenay Fires Update includes the remaining Evacuation Alert and Evacuation Order have been fully rescinded for the Wait Creek Fire near Ta Ta Creek.
The BC Wildfire Service is bracing for a surge of new wildfires this week as a prolonged dry spell, severe drought conditions and dry lightning increase the risk of new fires.
See the map here: https://wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca/map
Wait Creek (N11360)
The Evacuation Order and Alert for this fire have been RESCINDED. All residents are now able to return home, and there are no further Alerts or Orders in effect.
Estimated size – 1,378 ha
While evacuation alerts and orders have been rescinded, it is important to note that this area is still very much an active worksite. Please give BC Wildfire Service crews and resources the space they need to work safely.
Crews are working on setting up a wetline on the west flank.
Danger tree assessing and falling along roadways is ongoing – please watch for crews and equipment working
Tower Creek Fire (N10947)
An Evacuation ALERT has been RESCINDED for 65 properties in the St. Mary Lake area and REMAINS in effect for 1 property.
Estimated size – 1,188 ha
Operations are ongoing, expect to continue to see crews, heavy equipment and aviation resources in the area going forwards
WN11020 – Matthew Creek Fire
The Area Restriction for the Matthew Creek area remains in effect
Estimated size – 1,825.95 ha
Operations are ongoing, expect to continue to see crews, heavy equipment and aviation resources in the area going forwards
Crews are working to construct a fuel free line by hand in areas where it’s too steep for machines to work
They are determining water sources and delivery options for contingency lines
Control line planning, construction, and reinforcement work is ongoing by crews and equipment teams
Danger tree assessment and falling is ongoing
Helicopters are responding as objectives require to support crews
N11036 – Calamity Creek
The Area Restriction for the Calamity Creek area remains in effect
Estimated size – 180.89 ha
N21071 – Jumbo Creek
The Area Restriction for the Jumbo Creek area remains in effect.
Estimated size – 683.5
This wildfire is being regularly monitored, and should it move into an area that is a threat to identified values, response objectives and tactics will be adjusted accordingly
N11326 – Ranger Lake
Estimated size – 21.92 ha
Control lines are being established on the west flank with crews and heavy equipment.
There are no other significant updates to report on East Kootenay wildfires at this time.
Boaters on Columbia Lake and Premier Lake are reminded to clear the area and remain near shore when firefighting aircraft are operating. Water-skimming aircraft often work in groups, so additional aircraft may be approaching even if only one is visible.
Transport Canada and the BC Wildfire Service also remind the public that drones are prohibited near wildfires. Unauthorized drone activity can force firefighting aircraft to suspend operations until the airspace is safe.
If you see smoke or a wildfire:
Report it using the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.
Call 1-800-663-5555 from a landline.
Dial *5555 from a cellphone.
For the latest wildfire information, visit www.bcwildfire.ca.
For the latest highway information, visit https://www.drivebc.ca/
For the latest evacuation information, visit https://www.rdek.bc.ca/
