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South Okanagan-Similkameen major wildfires show no growth

Wildfires still stable in south

The situation at the two remaining out-of-control wildfires in the South Okanagan-Similkameen continues to be positive for firefighters.

Nk'Mip Creek

The Nk'Mip Creek wildfire was discovered July 19. For several days in a row, it has been estimated at 20,066 hectares, and BC Wildfire Service said in an update Friday morning that there has been "minimal growth" recently thanks to cool weather and precipitation.

Fire guards have been build protecting the edge closest to the Mt. Baldy community.

"These guards are directly adjacent to the active fire perimeter and help contain the fire while also allowing access for fire crews to work directly on the fire perimeter," reads the update.

"This tactic of direct attack by crews is also occurring on other areas of the fire wile the cool weather allows."

Structural protection equipment in the Mt. Baldy area was removed Thursday. Evacuation alerts remain in place.

The fire is still listed as out of control.

Garrison Lake

The Garrison Lake wildfire was discovered July 23, and has remained estimated at 15,000 hectares for several days.

"Fire activity remains largely stable, crews are reassessing after yesterday's precipitation and are continuing with objectives in priority areas," reads an update from BCWS Friday.

"Despite the precipitation, the fire will remain active until a significant amount or extended period of precipitation occurs, due to the dryness of fuels."

Evacuation alerts remain in effect in the Kennedy Lake and Eastgate areas.

Heavy equipment continues to support the development of fire guard construction, with a focus on the Whipsaw-Garrison area down to the Huckleberry. Bucketing helicopters will assist ground objectives throughout the day as needed.

The fire is still listed as out of control.


The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen has produced an informational video about wildfires with the help of BC Wildfire Service Information Officer. Watch the full video below.

Contributed RDOS


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