Times-Chronicle Staff
Yesterday’s planned ignition of 300 hectares of woodland in the Nk’Mip Creek wildfire was deemed “successful” by the BC Wildfire Service.
Crews conducted the burn-off on the challenging northwest flank of the fire on Saturday.
“This planned ignition operation occured in favorable weather conditions and was successful. The objective of this operation was to remove the fuel between the guard lines and the head of the fire,” said the BCWS in today’s update.
Removing this fuel in a controlled manner that is safe for crews and equipment reduces the risk of ember spotting to the north west area and aids in keeping the fire from further growth. The fire is still estimated at 17,800 hectares.
The BCWS reports that temperatures will remain seasonal or above seasonal for several days. Relative humidity will drop as temperatures increase. Winds will continue to be from the northwest but are expected to shift to southerly flows as a frontal system passes through the area within the next few days.
“This front will cause fire behaviour to increase, and growth of the fire is expected,” the BCWS says.
Firefighters continue to mop-up hot spots along the southern fire perimeter.
A mobile task force of structural protection crews and engines will continue to protect assets along McKinney Road near Mount Baldy. It will also be patrolling both day and night in anticipation of the frontal system that is predicted to pass through in the coming days. Structural protection assessments were recently reviewed and updated in the Mount Baldy area.
Ninety-six Mexican firefighters continue to work in high priority areas on the south and east flanks. In total, there are 213 firefighters working on this fire with the help of 23 pieces of heavy equipment and seven helicopters.
A number of properties are still under evacuation order and alert.
The BCWS says people who choose to remain in areas under evacuation order are putting everyone in danger.
“It’s not worth the risk . . . people who remain in an area that’s under an evacuation order may not receive assistance as firefighters and aircraft may not be able to reach you,” says the BCWS.
