Times-Chronicle Staff
Like most fires in the province, the Nk’Mip Creek wildfire is a stubborn blaze that won’t be extinguished anytime soon.
Fire behaviour is expected to increase on a daily basis, according to the BC Wildfire Service, which says the fire is still out of control at more than 17,470 hectares.
Crews continue to establish machine and contingency guards around the perimeter of the fire. These guard lines will be reinforced using hand and aerial ignitions when conditions allow. A small hand ignition project was conducted on Tuesday.
A large contingent of crews and helicopters will continue to focus on the northwest flank of the fire, where steep terrain and increased fire behaviour may challenge suppression efforts. Firefirefighters continue to mop up hot spots along the southern perimeter.
BC Wildfire says a warm, drying trend has returned to the South Okanagan. Temperatures will increase and humidity will decrease over the coming days. Once again, crews will be at the mercy of Mother Nature and her winds.
A task force of structural protection crews will continue to protect assets along McKinney Road and other areas of the fire; properties near Mt. Baldy are being continually assessed for structural protection needs.
A contingent of 98 Mexican firefighters left for three days of rest on Saturday, Aug. 7 and return today (August 11).
There are more than 120 firefighters actioning the blaze, along with 10 structural protection personnel, 36 pieces of heavy equipment and nine helicopters.
Information officer Greg Jonuk said they are expecting some northerly winds today, which may cause more fire growth and smoke.
Jonuk said it is safe to assume that this fire will still be burning well into the fall. Fortunately, the public has been cooperative during this fire, he noted, stating there have been no incidents with prohibited drones in the area. Crews are reminding the public to stay out of the fire zone (restriction area).
