Photo: BCWS

The Octopus Creek wildfire burning south of Fauquier has grown to an estimated 11,444 hectares in size.

In a Saturday afternoon update, the BC Wildfire Service said aggressive fire behaviour continues to be observed, but is reduced compared to previous days due to lighter winds and slightly cooler temperatures.

The lightning-caused fire has backed down to the shores on Lower Arrow Lake and is very visible from Edgewood, Fauquier, Needles and surrounding areas.

Heavy smoke impeded air support on Saturday.

Crews are working to establish guard lines around the community and other priority areas. Structure protection has been mobilized to Fauquier, and a 15-person Incident Management Team is now managing the fire, which is part of the Arrow Lake Complex.

An evacuation order remains in place for some properties along Applegrove Road as well as five properties south of Taite Creek, including the Taite Creek recreation site.

An evacuation alert is also in effect for Fauquier.

The wildfire service is fighting the fire with 21 firefighters and four pieces of heavy equipment.