Williams Lake, B.C. - Extreme weather conditions and volatile fire behaviour continue to challenge crews fighting six interface wildfires across the Cariboo Fire Centre. 

 

Crews have extended guard lines along the north flank of the Meldrum Creek fire, which is currently estimated at 3,000 hectares in size. Heavy smoke in the area is limiting pilots’ ability to conduct aerial firefighting operations, and crews on the ground are facing very challenging conditions. An evacuation order remains in place.

 

There are several fires burning west of Alexis Creek, the largest of which covers 3,000 hectares. One hundred firefighters are currently working these fires, assisted by heavy equipment building guard lines. An evacuation alert is in effect.

 

The Dog Creek fire, formerly known as the Alkali Lake fire, is now 6,000 hectares due to a significant increase in fire activity last night. Fire crews are on site working with heavy equipment to build guard on the south flank of the fire, closest to impacted communities. Structural protection units are in place on structures immediately threatened, and evacuation orders and alerts are in effect.

 

The fire south of Twan Creek is currently estimated at 1,900 hectares in size. Personnel are on site and airtankers have been working this fire, attempting to prevent its continued growth. Evacuation orders and alerts are in effect for the surrounding area.

 

The Pelican Lake complex of fires remains active. The largest fires in the area are 2,000 and 5,000 hectares in size. Structural protection crews have been deployed, along with airtankers, helicopters, heavy equipment and wildland firefighters. An evacuation order is in effect.