Fire near Osoyoos grows, ignition planned

PENTICTON – B.C Wildfire reports this morning the Richter Pass wildfire continues to burn out of control.

The Richter Creek fire grew to 400 ha yesterday andheavy equipment and personnel worked overnight to construct guard.

The blaze began Monday afternoon approximately 12 km west of Osoyoos after a vehicle fire spread to nearby grass.

Fire information officer Nicole Bonnett says rain that fell in the area yesterday had little effect on the fire, which will likely grow this afternoon if a planned 160 ha ignition of the fire’s north and west flanks takes place today, May 15.

B.C. Wildfire currently has 59 firefighters and four helicopters working the blaze.

While not classified as an interface fire, the blaze resulted in the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen issuing an evacuation alert for a total of 14 properties over the past three days.

An incident management team is making its way to the South Okanagan to take over response to the wildfire today, May 15.

Bonnett cautions residents to keep in mind the potential for fire activity in the region while enjoying outdoor activities this long weekend.

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