Minimal growth on Christie Mountain wildfire on weekend; work underway to get evacuees home

The cooler weather on Sunday was a big help for crews battling the Christie Mountain wildfire burning near Penticton.

The winds pushed the fire away from the city and there was minimal growth over the weekend, according to B.C. Wildfire Service.

"Slightly cooling temperatures will likely mean fairly safe fire conditions, so that's good news," fire information officer Greg Jonuk said yesterday, Aug. 23.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is finalizing plans to return Heritage Hills evacuees to their homes.

READ MORE: Stress level around Christie Mountain fire falling, says Penticton mayor

An update from the Emergency Operations Centre at 7 a.m. today, Aug.24, states re-entry plans are being finalized as wildfire crews and equipment remain in the area.

Geotechnical work is underway and crews are ensuring the safety of homes, driveways, retaining walls and critical infrastructure including gas, power and water lines. Crews are also assessing tree and other potential dangers prior to re-opening the community.

The regional district says the objective is to return people as soon as possible.

The evacuation order remains in place until further notice in the interests of public safety.

Approximately 200 firefighters and a total of 16 helicopters were fighting the wildfire on Sunday, which remained roughly 20 square kilometres in size.

— With files from The Canadian Press

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