Area restriction lifted around what’s left of Christie Mountain wildfire

Another sign there isn't much life left in the Christie Mountain wildfire south of Penticton.

Area restrictions were lifted around the 2,100 hectare wildfire today, Sept. 14. The blaze was brought under control late last week.

B.C. Wildfire Service said in a post to Facebook the restriction have been removed as wildfire personnel no longer need to restrict public access to operate safely and efficiently. Crews continue to work what's left of the fire and the public should always exercise caution while travelling in the area.

Even if an area restriction has been rescinded, officials still have the authority to order anyone to leave the area as significant hazards such as unstable trees damaged by fire may be present, as well as ash pits that can remain hot long after flames have died down, the wildfire service said.

The wildfire was discovered on Aug.18, on the east side of Skaha Lake around six kilometres north of Okanagan Falls. The fire resulted in an evacuation order and several alerts that have since been cancelled.

B.C. Wildfire Service believes the blaze was sparked by lightning.


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Steve Arstad

I have been looking for news in the South Okanagan - SImilkameen for 20 years, having turned a part time lifelong interest into a full time profession. After five years publishing a local newsletter, several years working as a correspondent / stringer for several local newspapers and seven years as editor of a Similkameen weekly newspaper, I joined iNFOnews.ca in 2014. My goal in the news industry has always been to deliver accurate and interesting articles about local people and places. My interest in the profession is life long - from my earliest memories of grade school, I have enjoyed writing.
As an airborne geophysical surveyor I travelled extensively around the globe, conducting helicopter borne mineral surveys.
I also spent several years at an Okanagan Falls based lumber mill, producing glued-wood laminated products.
As a member of the Kaleden community, I have been involved in the Kaleden Volunteer Fire Department for 22 years, and also serve as a trustee on the Kaleden Irrigation District board.
I am currently married to my wife Judy, of 26 years. We are empty-nesters who enjoy living in Kaleden with our Welsh Terrier, Angus, and cat, Tibbs.
Our two daughters, Meagan and Hayley, reside in Richmond and Victoria, respectively.

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