The Kimberley Evacuation Alert Lifted announcement came Saturday after the BC Wildfire Service reported progress on the Matthew Creek Wildfire west of the city.

The Evacuation Alert covering all properties within the City of Kimberley municipal boundary was rescinded on July 25 following a recommendation from the BC Wildfire Service.

Kimberley Fire Chief Will Booth said the decision was based on progress made by firefighting crews, forecast fire behaviour and the resources available to continue suppression efforts.

Although the alert has been lifted, the Matthew Creek Wildfire remains active. Residents may continue to see BC Wildfire Service personnel and equipment working around the fire.

Officials are reminding residents that wildfire conditions can change and that people should continue to monitor official information.

Kimberley Evacuation Alert Lifted, St. Mary Lake Alert Remains

The Evacuation Alert for 66 properties in the St. Mary Lake area remains in effect because of the Tower Creek fires.

Regional Emergency Operations Centre Information Officer Loree Duczek urged affected residents to remain prepared, have an evacuation plan and keep a go-bag packed in case conditions worsen and an Evacuation Order becomes necessary.

Residents should register online or by phone for the Regional Evacuation Notification System and the Vulnerable Persons Database. Anyone without internet access, or who needs help registering or confirming their location, can call the Regional Emergency Information Line at 250-426-2188 or 1-855-346-2188.

The latest wildfire information is available in the East Kootenay Fires update.