Wildfire update as of 1 p.m. July 25
By Kyra Hoggan
There are 32 wildfires burning in the Southeast Fire Centre district as of 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 25, according to Fire Information Officer John Boivin.
He said there were seven new fires yesterday (five of which were lightning-caused) and two new blazes today. Of the 32 fires, 20 are either under control or being held.
Four notable fires in the region include: one in Lardo Valley (north of Kootenay Lake) near Rapid Creek, which is 10 hectares and is being handled with a modified response, meaning they are closely observing it, but not attacking it due to the terrain. One at Lockhart Provincial Park is 1.5 hectares and is 75 per cent contained, with ground crews and air support attacking it.
An interface fire in Christian Valley was one hectare in size, and destroyed some outbuildings, including a barn. Midway Fire Department attended to deal with the structure fires. The fire is now in the mop-up stages.
Finally, the Hoder Creek wildfire, which was nine hectares Thursday, has been reduced to a single hectare and is under control.
He said there are no wildfires at all threatening the tri-city area (Castlegar, Trail and Nelson).
With more hot dry weather in the forecast, Boivin also reminded people that it is critical that they report wildfires so crews can hit them hard and fast, before they rage out of control.
To report a wildfire or irresponsible behaviour call 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 from a cell phone.
