Crews make progress on wildfires in Similkameen

PENTICTON – One of the two serious wildfires burning in the Similkameen is being held by fire crews.

The Snowy Mountain wildfire burning south of Keremeos since July 17, has grown to 13,359 hectares but is now listed as being held, B.C. Wildfire says, although evacuation alerts remain in place.

Crews are at work patrolling and mopping up today, Aug. 17. Steep terrain has been an issue, with some areas proving inaccessible and risky to firefighting personnel.

Fire equipment is being demobilized in areas where it is no longer required.

B.C Wildfire says the 144-ha Old Tom Creek fire, burning out of control since Wednesday, Aug. 15, is around seven kilometres west of Olalla, but is not threatening any structures at this time.

Ground crews, heavy equipment and air tankers working the lightning-caused fire have made good progress building containment lines.

More information about evacuation alerts can be found at the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen website here.

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