South Okanagan

Crews with BC's Wilfire Management branch have reduced a wildfire near Cawston to 16-hectares.

The blaze, reported near Highway 3 and Barcelo Road Tuesday afternoon, spread to 35-hectares, requiring the deployment of air tankers and helicopters.

About 24 personnel and two helicopters are on the scene this morning.

"The cause is still under investigation, but it is believed to be human caused," said fire information officer Fionna Tollovsen.

"This fire serves as a reminder that even though it is October, it is still dry out there and people need to be careful."

The fire danger rating is “high” or “extreme” in 65 per cent of the Kamloops Fire Centre. Crews have responded to 437 wildfires so far this year, and 14 wildfires have started in the past week. The public is asked to remain vigilant and use extreme caution during this prolonged period of dry forest conditions.