Heather Lake wildfire grows to 10,358 hectares; smoke expected to diminish Monday with rain in forecast

Photo: BCWS

The northeast corner of Heather Lake wildfire, burning Wednesday Sept. 7

The Heather Lake wildfire in Manning Provincial Park has grown yet again.

As of a Monday morning update from BC Wildfire Service, the fire, which was lightning-caused on Aug. 21, is mapped at 10,358 hectares.

Approximately 5,439 hectares are burning in Canada. Evacuation alerts remain in place at Manning Park resort and in the nearby community of Eastgate.

The fire has been putting up a lot of smoke in recent days, responsible for smoky skies around the Okanagan Sunday, but Monday should see a change.

"Smoke should diminish and there is a chance of light showers this afternoon. A deeper onshore flow develops today we may see increased cloud cover with cooler temperatures. An inflow with light winds from the southeast is expected with more seasonably cooler temperatures apparent," reads the latest BCWS update.

Travellers are still advised to use caution on Highway 3 and expect smoke and visibility issues.

"Crews will continue to work in this area so please be cautious when traveling in active wildfire areas. Before entering any area affected by a wildfire, members of the public and those recreating within the park should be aware that significant safety hazards may be present."

Photo: BCWS

Heather Lake wildfire map as of Sept. 11