UPDATE: Eight properties that were on an evacuation order east of Osoyoos are now under an alert. The B.C. Wildfire service says it was able to downgrade the order to an alert because crews have completed a guard on the Canadian side allowing residents to return to their homes. The residents must, however, be ready to leave again at very short notice if the fire becomes aggressive.
OSOYOOS – A fire that started in Washington State Thursday afternoon has crossed the border and is now burning in the south Okanagan.
The Sidley Mountain wildfire, which is also being referred to as the Anarchist Mountain fire on the Canadian side, has prompted the evacuation of at least 8 properties at Nine Mile Creek on Anarchist Mountain.
The fire is about 50 hectares on the Canadian side of the border and 1,000 hectares on the American side. It’s believed to have been caused by lightning.
Canadian fire crews were ready for the fire as it inched closer to the border. They set up heavy equipment in place and started building a guard before the flames jumped the line.
The B.C. Wildfire Service is monitoring the weather closely. Friday is expected to bring rain which could help in the fire fight. However, the forecast also calls for strong wings which could make the fire more aggressive.
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