Clinton, B.C. – Weather conditions today at the Kelly Creek fire are very favourable for firefighters to directly attack the fire using hand tools, pumps and hose, heavy equipment and helicopter bucketing.

 

Firefighters are concentrating their direct attack efforts in areas adjacent to fireguards and in the vicinity of roads and structures.

 

Initial Attack fire crews are also establishing helipads on isolated sections of the north flank of the fire.  These helipads will allow transport of firefighters and equipment to directly attack open flames and hotspots on northern areas of the fire not directly accessible from roads.

The weather in the south Cariboo this week is expected to return to warmer and drier conditions than those experienced over the last few days.

 

The Kelly Creek fire area remains at 19,525 hectares with estimated 40% containment. Today there are 101 firefighters, six helicopters and 23 heavy equipment units engaged in fire control operations.

 

The area surrounding the Kelly Creek wildfire will remain closed to public access. This Restricted Area Order is in place to ensure fire personnel and public safety.

 

As for the Lava Canyon fire near Alexis Creek, , cooler temps are helping there as well. Parts of the fire received measurable precipitation yesterday.  The Lava Canyon Fire is now 80% contained and is approximately 63, 533 hectares, or 635 square kilometres, in size. 

 

Resources working on the Lava Canyon Fire include 261 firefighters, 12 helicopters, 27 pieces of heavy equipment, and 84 support staff.

 

Evacuation alerts for Scum Lake and areas west of Bull Canyon, up to and including Puntzi Lake have been rescinded.  

 

The Newton-Whitewater Road (7000 Road) remains closed to traffic approximately one kilometre south of the Siwash Bridge. This closure is necessary due to fire suppression operations along this road. The public is asked to refrain from entering this area.