Ontario team takes over Smith Creek fire command
WEST KELOWNA – An incident management team from Ontario has taken command of the Smith Creek fire in West Kelowna, translating into additional support for local staff.
The collaborated effort of West Kelowna, Peachland, Lake Country and Kelowna fire departments will continue and personnel from the Wildfire Management Branch will also offer support in varying roles.
The fire is estimated at 260 ha and is approximately 30 per cent contained. There was increased fire activity today because of unburnt fuels ingiting within the fire's interior, according to a press release from B.C. Wildfire, but the fire didn't move outside guards or retardant lines. With continued high winds in the forecast, there is a chance the fire may creep downhill overnight.
As well, winds may be strong enough to break trees in the area of the fire so firefighters may be removed from prone areas as a precaution.
Those temporarily displaced because of the fire will not be allowed back in their homes tonight.
Numerous evacuation alerts and orders have been issued by the Central Okanagan Regional District due to this fire. For more information visit CORDEmergency.ca
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