Spatsum Creek grows to 850 hectares
By Contributor
Strong, gusty winds contributed to aggressive fire activity on the Spatsum Creek wildfire overnight. The fire is now estimated at 850 hectares in size.
Today, approximately 80 fire fighters, five helicopters, heavy equipment and airtankers will action the fire.
The fire has spread into an area that is accessible by heavy machinery, which is now being utilized in combination with retardant dropped from the air to establish fuel-free areas around the fire to slow its growth.
The Thompson Nicola Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for an area west of Highway 97C, and spanning five kilometres north of the wildfire. Area residents requiring additional information may contact the TNRD at 250-377-7188.
The unstable weather and steep, rocky terrain has continually challenged our crews who have been fighting this wildfire over the last week. A specialized incident management team is on route to support the personnel already engaged on this wildfire.
This person-caused fire serves as a reminder for the public to be vigilant during this period of high fire danger rating. Please report all wildfires at *5555 on your cellular phone or toll-free at 1-800-663-5555 to report a wildfire.
