With massive plumes of smoke billowing into the hot skies in B.C.’s South Okanagan, the Christie Mountain wildfire underwent a stunning explosion of growth on Tuesday.
In the afternoon, it was estimated at four hectares. By midnight, it was scorching, burning and candling 1,000 hectares.
At noon on Wednesday, BC Wildfire estimated the fire at 1,400 hectares.
On Wednesday morning, just before 11 a.m., the BC Wildfire Service said the fire hadn’t grown anymore, but noted it was zero-per-cent contained, and that it’s burning in difficult, rocky and sloped terrain with limited access points for firefighters.
BC Wildfire also called it a Rank 3 fire, stating it has an organized flame front, a moderate rate of spread, and vigorous surface activity.
“The winds were variable overnight, which influenced the fire activity and contributed to some Rank 3 fire behaviour,” said the agency, adding most of the growth was attributed to overnight winds.
“The wind is currently favourable and the fire is moving in a southeasterly direction (which is away from town) at this time.”
BC Wildfire continued, saying “as we move into the hottest and driest part of the day, fire activity is expected to increase.”
During a press conference at noon, fire officials said plans are in place, with Regional District Okanagan Similkameen chair Karla Kozakevich thanking the public for staying away from the area.
“Stay clear of the affected areas. Heritage Hills, East Side Road and in particular Skaha Lake,” said Kozakevich.
“Boaters have been doing a great job of staying clear so that the bombers can come in and pick up water to fight this fire.”
The regional district was asked about a home being destroyed by the fire, but wouldn’t comment, stating they had not yet contacted the homeowner.
However, later in the day, the RDOS did confirm that fire did destroy the home in Heritage Hills, south of Penticton.
Regarding the evacuation order and alert, and where people would go if they are forced out of their homes, Penticton mayor John Vassilaki said the South Okanagan Convention Centre “would be a good start,” as it’s capable of hosting several hundred beds.
“We all understand how stressful this is for our residents that have been evacuated, as well as the folks that are on alert waiting to be evacuated possibly at a moment’s notice,” said Kozakevich.
“You cannot force someone to leave their home unless they’re a minor,” said Erick Thompson, RDOS emergency operations centre director.
“And if someone chooses to do that it’s really unfortunate because it can put emergency personnel in danger.”
BC Wildfire says there are now 66 firefighters on scene, along with seven helicopters. Two more helicopters are en route.
“Currently, personnel are working on the southwest flank of the fire, putting in control lines,” said BC Wildfire.
Overnight, 21 firefighters were on scene, with local fire departments guarding the south flank.
In related news, the B.C. Boating Association is also asking boaters to stay off Skaha Lake.
This story will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.
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