Richter Mountain fire grows to 250 hectares, more growth expected

CAWSTON- Winds fuelled the Richter Mountain Wildfire overnight, causing it to grow to 250 hectares. 

This growth of 100 hectares overnight occurred away from structures and communities and is a result of winds that occurred yesterday evening, Nicole Bonnett, fire information officer with the Kamloops Fire Centre said.

Conditions should fuel further fire growth in the area, which is near to Highway 3 between Cawston and Osoyoos.

"This afternoon we are expecting some strong winds and then fire behaviour will change from that," said Bonnett.  

There were 20 firefighters dealing with the blaze last night. Currently, there are 67 personnel and heavy equipment on-site with aircraft supporting their suppression efforts. 

"There are no air tankers on-site at this time, but should conditions change they can be called in," she said.

The fire is still listed as out of control and started by lightning. An evacuation order is in place for 10 properties.

There have been 559 wildfires in B.C. to date, 47 have been sparked in the last seven days.
 

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