The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) is responding to an excursion on the Bill Nye Mountain fire that originated seven kilometres southeast of Wasa three weeks ago.

Strong winds from an incoming gust front significantly increased fire activity on the northwest side. An excursion on the northwest perimeter crossed the Lazy Lake Road and is currently threatening one structure. Firefighters and structural protection specialists are on site working to protect structures in the affected area.

Helicopters are providing bucketing support and heavy equipment is working to establish new containment lines. An evacuation order is already in place for the area.

BC Hydro has de-energized powerlines along Lazy Lake Road for responder safety as ground crews continue to work nearby.

The wildfire has grown significantly since it was last updated at 2,552 hectares, largely to the northwest where the excursion took place. An estimate on the updated size has it around 2,591 ha.

For the latest information on evacuation orders and alerts in this area, contact the Regional District of East Kootenay at www.rdek.bc.ca or by phone at 250-426-2188.

If a wildfire is threatening your community, the best information sources are your municipality, regional district, band office or local authority. Find out in advance how they’ll share vital information. To find resources to help you prepare for a potential wildfire, visit: www.firesmartbc.ca andwww.preparedbc.ca.

To report a wildfire call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity and burning or forest restrictions, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

Lead image: The Bill Nye Mountain wildfire as of July 28. BCWS photo

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