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Winds fan Doctor Creek fire as more firefighters added
Slightly cooler weather and the absence of lightning the last few days has helped lead to less wildfire activity in the East Kootenay, allowing the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) to pour more resources into the Doctor Creek fire, 25 km southwest of Canal Flats.
BCWS today reports the lightning-caused fire discovered on August 18 remains at about 3,071 hectares, the same as August 24, but a new estimate is reported to be forthcoming.
Today (August 25) there are 145 firefighters, seven helicopters and five pieces of heavy equipment working on the fire, the largest in B.C.
“Ground crews continue to work with the support of heavy equipment and aviation resources today. An additional 60 personnel arrived yesterday, and work continues on the construction of control lines north and south of Doctor Creek with support from small planned ignitions operations. They will be supported by seven helicopters that bucket water onto areas of increased fire activity as well as a water tender. Suppression efforts are currently concentrated on the east flank of the fire and additional planning and establishment of contingency lines is underway,” BCWS reported.
“Fire behaviour increased yesterday afternoon and evening due to elevated winds. As a result, the fire grew, predominantly in the southeast direction. Personnel are working this morning to assess the growth and update the area burned estimate.”
The Regional District of East Kootenay’s evacuation order remains in effect for the Findlay Creek area, including north of Whitetail Lake up to Dutch Creek; west to the Purcell Conservancy Corridor; south to Doctor Peak and Mount Allen; east to the Skookumchuck FSR.
In order to support the response efforts and to protect the safety of the public and firefighting personnel, an area restriction is in effect for the Doctor Creek wildfire.
Smoke from this fire has been settling into the valleys overnight and is presenting a challenge to visibility for morning aviation operations. Structure protection systems are in use near the fire as a precautionary measure.
The BCWS is today reporting only two other fires in the East Kootenay on its BC Wildfire Dashboard, including the Stirton Road fire near Marysville and the Joseph Creek fire east of Moyie. Both fires are under control.
Lead image: The Doctor Creek wildfire. BCWS photos
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