More smoke may be seen coming from the Harrop Creek wildfire today (Aug. 9, 2017), as BC Wildfire Service personnel respond to a 15-hectare spot fire that is 750 metres outside of the main fire perimeter.

The BC Wildfire Service is reminding the public that they must stay clear of firefighting aircraft that are collecting water from lakes in the region, including Moyie Lake, Lake Koocanusa and Premier Lake.

The recent growth of two wildfires in the Southeast Fire Centre has prompted the Columbia Shuswap Regional District to issue two evacuation alerts — one for the Galena Bay area and another for Heather Lodge and the surrounding area.

The BC Wildfire Service has implemented three forest service road closures in the Southeast Fire Centre to help protect public safety and aid in wildfire suppression activities.

The theft of a water pump and hoses being used by the BC Wildfire Service has hindered fire suppression efforts on the Harrop Creek wildfire, which is burning 10 kilometres south of the communities of Harrop and Procter.

BC Wildfire Service personnel are continuing to monitor and develop control strategies for the 80-hectare Harrop Creek wildfire.

Public access to the White-Middle Fork Forest Service Road in the Invermere fire zone is now closed at the 45.5-kilometre mark.

BC Wildfire Service personnel have been responding to lightning-caused wildfires throughout the Southeast Fire Centre. Although some of these wildfires are visible from surrounding communities, none of these fires is immediately threatening communities or structures.

As a result of cooler temperatures and moderate fire danger ratings, BC Parks — in consultation with the BC Wildfire Service — has reopened southern sections of Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park for public use, effective immediately. 

BC Wildfire Service personnel have been responding to 31 active wildfires throughout the Southeast Fire Centre. Although some of these wildfires are visible from surrounding communities, none are immediately threatening communities or structures.