Crews work to get handle on wildfire burning near Penticton

The 100 hectare out of control wildfire burning to the southwest of Penticton did not see any major growth overnight, according to B.C. Wildfire Service.

The Skaha Creek wildfire quickly grew yesterday, Aug. 30, due to the hot, dry and windy conditions, wildfire service information officer Roslyn Johnson said.

The wildfire’s size has not changed overnight and there has been no major growth, however it is highly visible from Penticton, Johnson said.

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She said firefighters likely won’t see the same fire activity today as it will be cooler than yesterday, but “you’ll still likely see increased smoke as it warms up in the afternoon.”

Yesterday, the fire grew in the northern direction and to the east, she said.

The flanks of the fire that are closest to Penticton are the most important priority today, Johnson said.

Crews on the east flank are directly attacking the fire with suppression equipment, including water and are working to establish a fire guard.

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Heavy equipment is working on the west and northern flanks. Helicopters and aerial support will be on the fire as needed, she said.

There are 53 personnel on site with 13 additional crew members arriving this afternoon, she said.

No evacuation alerts or orders are in place at this time but the wildfire service is monitoring the situation, Johnson said.

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