The Wildfire Update for the Elk Valley has been favourable with Michel Creek now being under control and no other fire activity to report. We’ve entered the heart of wildfire season and several communities are threatened by flames and are under extreme stress and facing a range of emotions with great uncertainty. Please remain vigilant when out and enjoying our beautiful corner of the East Kootenay’s.
The Special Air Quality Statement for the East Kootenay has been expanded to include the Elk Valley. Read the Smoky Skies Bulletin HERE. People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors or seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
N21398 – Madias Creek
The Madias Creek Wildfire is currently classed as BEING HELD, which is a wildfire that is projected, based on fuel and weather conditions and resource availability, to remain within the current perimeter, control line or boundary. You may still see some activity in the area.
The Evacuation Order for 27 civic addresses that was put in place for this fire yesterday has been downgraded to an Evacuation Alert. The previous Alerts issued by the RDEK and the ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation Council remain in effect.
Size – 2.11 ha
Suspected cause – human
Island Pond – N21295
The Evacuation Order and Alert in relation to the Island Pond wildfire have been rescinded.
Size – the size has been adjusted to 37 ha.
No significant growth was recorded.
Ground crews continue working on direct attack strategies on the west flank, establishing anchor points on the west flank.
The Machine guard around the perimeter is complete. Heavy Equipment remains on site today should they be required.
Airtankers have completed objectives on this fire, though they will return if objectives require.
Structure protection was completed on areas of potential concern July 20th.
This fire is burning adjacent to Highway 93/95, and people in vehicles are slowing down or stopping on the road, which is causing an unsafe situation for both public and responders. The public is urged to keep moving through the area and avoid impacting traffic.
N11296 – Bull River
Size – being assessed
Suspected cause – human or human activity
N11298 – Lost Lake – northeast of Elkford
Size – 0.5 ha
Suspected cause – lightning
Mount Morro – N21014 – Located in Top of the World Provincial Park (currently closed)
Esitmated Size – 3,700 ha
This lightning-caused fire continues to burn at high elevation on Mount Morro.
It is classified as a modified response. Wildfire Officers and an initial attack crew have worked with BC Parks to protect park values and it continues to be monitored.
N21255 – Lost Dog N
Estimated Size – 3.5 ha
Suspected cause – lightning
N21284 – Mt McMillan
Estimated Size – 2.0 ha
Suspected cause – lightning
N11212 – Bradford Creek
Size – 29.3 ha
Suspected cause – lightning
There currently is a Category 1 campfires ban throughout Fernie, the Elk Valley, South Country and the Southeast Fire Centre. Please respect all closures.
For more information on specific wildfires in the region contact the Southeast Fire Centre at BCWS.SEFCInformationOfficer@gov.bc.ca or 250-318-7715
The use of UAVs or drones near or on a wildfire is also considered to be “interference,” as defined in Section 56 of the provincial Wildfire Act. Operators are subject to a violation ticket fine of $1,150. If convicted, the operator could be fined up to $100,000 and/or face imprisonment of over a year.
Heat Warnings: Interior Health is reminding people to be safe as prolonged heat warnings from Environment and Climate Change Canada continue across the Interior Health region and temperatures in many areas are increasing heading into the weekend.
While the Province has not declared an extreme heat emergency for this region, the risk of heat-related illness increases with elevated temperatures. With prolonged periods of hot temperatures, it is important to monitor indoor temperatures as well as take precautions when spending time outdoors.
Obey all fire bans, area restrictions and instructions from BC Wildfire personnel. If you see any sign of wildfire report it right away through the BC Wildfire app or by calling 1-800-663-5555. Stay up to date by regularly visiting www.bcwildfire.ca.
