The latest East Kootenay Fires Update activity across the region remains relatively stable, the Matthew Creek wildfire west of Kimberley and several other fires continue to be held or monitored.
WN11020 – Matthew Creek Fire
Matthew Creek is now classified as being held. This means that it is projected, based on fuel and weather conditions and resource availability, to remain within the current perimeter, control line or boundary.
An area restriction remains in place in the Matthew Creek area at this time
Tower Creek Fire (N10947)
No changes to report and it continues to be classified as BEING HELD and is not expected to grow further beyond the pre-determined boundary
The Area Restriction remains in effect.
N11036 – Calamity Creek
BEING HELD and is being regularly monitored
The Area Restriction is still in effect at this time.
N21071 – Jumbo Creek
The Area Restriction remains in effect.
It is being regularly monitored and is not threatening structures or critical infrastructure
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.
(N21239) – Diorite Fire
It is now classified as BEING HELD and is not expected to grow further beyond the pre-determined boundary
It continues to be monitored
Off-Road Vehicle Ban Remains in Effect
A full Off-Road Vehicle ban remains in effect throughout the East Kootenay. Recreational use of quads, dirt bikes, ATVs, side-by-sides and other off-road vehicles on Crown land is prohibited.
Officials have received several reports of motorbikes being operated in and around the Wait Creek Fire area near Ta Ta Creek. In addition to being prohibited, this activity is particularly concerning in an area where residents have recently been directly affected by wildfire.
ORV violations can be reported through the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.
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/
