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MONDAY UPDATE: 12 wildfires burning in West Kootenay

At least 23 fires have started in recent days in the Southeast Fire Centre
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Screenshot: BC Wildfire Service July 23

The Southeast Fire Centre (SEFC) responded to 23 lightning-caused fires between July 21 and July 24, with 14 of the fires in the West Kootenay.

The SEFC says none of the fires are impacting communities as of Sunday afternoon, but several are highly visible.

The SEFC had increased preparedness in the region, anticipating the storm activity and says resources in the area remain adequate.

A cluster of six fires is reported at Frog Peak in the Norns Range, about 6.5 kilometres west of Passmore. There are two initial attack crews and two helicopters working on the cluster in a priority sequence, meaning fires closest to communities are prioritized first, according to the SEFC. No structures are threatened at this time.

The Mount Fergusen fire is about four kilometres south of Harrop. There are two rapattack crews and an initial attack crew on scene being supported by two helicopters to cool the fire and move resources in difficult terrain. Ground crews are focused on fire suppression, building a helipad, and creating water delivery access. It is classified as out of control.

The Halfway Creek fire is approximately 2.5 kilometres east of Salmo. This fire is burning in rocky and mountainous terrain. An initial attack crew is en route and while it is visible to the surrounding communities, it is not currently threatening structures. The fire is now considered under control.

The Ground Creek fire is about 8 kilometres southwest of Winlaw.

A fire at Wales Forest Service Road is near the Paulson Summit. It is now listed as under control.

The Cove Creek fire in Valhalla Provincial Park began Friday, July 22. It is listed as out of control.

A fire at Watshan Lake also began on Friday, but is now under control.

A small fire at Wally Creek near Salmo is now listed as under control.

Several fires have already been delcared out including Lendrum Creek in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, Keystone Mountain north of Salmo and Six Mile Lake north of Nelson.

With temperatures forecast to increase, the SEFC expects more fires to start in the next few days.

READ MORE: Nohomin Creek wildfire sees ‘quieter fire behaviour’, no more growth



betsy.kline@castlegarnews.com

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Betsy Kline

About the Author: Betsy Kline

After spending several years as a freelance writer for the Castlegar News, Betsy joined the editorial staff as a reporter in March of 2015. In 2020, she moved into the editor's position.
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