CASTLEGAR – Two fires that started this afternoon are generating smoke and fire suppression activity that is visible to local communities. Both these fires were discovered August 12, 2012 at around 1:30PM and are suspected to have been caused by lightning.
The 2-hectare fire burning in Five Mile Creek northeast of Nelson is located in a watershed and fire officials are taking precautions to keep the area protected. The fire is not threatening any communities or structures. A three-person initial attack crew, three helicopters and airtankers are onsite.
A 0.2-hectare fire is burning northwest of Castlegar in the area above Syringa. No structures or communities are threatened. Airtankers are responding and a three-person initial attack crew and three helicopters are on-route.
Several other spot-sized fires (less than one hectare) are burning as a result of thunderstorms within the fire centre during the past week. Most of these fires are located in remote areas and are not affecting nearby communities.
The Southeast Fire Centre would like to thank everyone who reported wildfires this weekend. Early reporting is an important step in ensuring our success in extinguishing fires while they are still small.
Quick Facts:
Since April 1, the Southeast Fire Centre has responded to 87 wildfires, 32 of which were caused by people.
To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call *5555 on your cell phone or 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.