KAMLOOPS – The final burn-off operation on the east flank of the Mount McLean wildfire has been completed and fuel removal procedures along the west flank will resume when conditions permit.

Last night’s burn-off greatly contributed to reduce the risk posed by the wildfire to the communities located west of the Fraser River. Crews on the ground worked throughout the night to extinguish hot spots along the control line. The size fire is now estimated at 3650 hectares.

Firefighters supported by heavy machinery and helicopters will continue to do put out spot fires in the vicinity of the southeast flank. The fireguard along the west end of the fire is also been reinforced.

Currently, 41 BCFS firefighters, 19 pieces of heavy equipment, 14 helicopters and 41 support staff are on site. Temperatures are slightly cooler but fuels in the forests remain very dry. Isolated thunderstorms are forecast this afternoon, bringing winds gusting up 40 to 60 km/h.

Evacuation orders apply for the north shore of Seton Lake, Seton Portage, Shalalth and the Municipal District of Lillooet and First Nations west of the Fraser River. The evacuation alert remains for the Lillooet District east of the Fraser River. For information on evacuations within the municipality of Lillooet call 250 256-3069, for lands outside the municipality call 1-866-417-4132. For information on road closures in the area, visit drivebc.ca or call 1-800-550-4997.