Octopus wildfire near Fauquier grows to 14,238 hectares, smoke causing low visibility

Photo: BCWS

The Octopus Creek wildfire burning south of Fauquier has grown to an estimated 14,238 hectares in size.

The BC Wildfire Service says fire behaviour remains fairly low due to lessening winds and cooler temperatures due to heavy smoke, which is blocking the sun.

However, the wildfire service advises that conditions could change rapidly and fire behaviour could increase suddenly.

Smoke from the blaze is impeding air support operations, and air attack officers are monitoring the situation, says BCWS.

Airtankers and helicopters plan to return to work as soon as soon as visibility is clear and it is deemed safe to resume operations.