Richter Mountain wildfire spreads, evacuation alert issued

PENTICTON – An evacuation alert has been issued for 10 properties in the south Similkameen as the Richter Mountain fire spreads.

The Richter Mountain Wildfire (K51089) is now ~150 ha as a result of winds and warmer drying conditions. There are 63 personnel on site with helicopters & airtanker support. These resources will be working into the evening & 20 personnel will work overnight with heavy equipment. pic.twitter.com/hmpScps8ce

— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) July 27, 2019

The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen issued the alert at 5:15  this afternoon, July 26.

The properties under the alert are:

• 1090 Highway 3
• 1131 Highway 3
• 1125 Highway 3
• 1143 Highway 3
• 1095 Highway 3
• 1009 Highway 3
• 1117 Highway 3
• 101 Chopaka Rd
• 963 Highway 3
• 1002 Highway 3

Property owners should be prepared to evacuate their property should an evacuation order be issued.

UPDATE: The Richter Mountain wildfire (K51089) is now ~80 ha. This fire grew overnight due to down slope winds that commonly occur in the valley during the late evening. Currently 62 personnel are responding with air support in the form of 3 helicopters and air tankers. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/SRH77E7qR9

— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) July 26, 2019

The  fire, which is burning near to Highway 3 between Cawston and Osoyoos, grew overnight when downslope winds fanned the blaze.

For more information, see the regional district website.

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