©BCWildfireService
A change in the weather is expected to increase fire activity at the Bald Range wildfire in Summerland, according to BC Wildfire Service (BCWS). In its latest update, which came just after 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11, BCWS said windy conditions are expected at the north end of the fire while there’s a chance of a thunderstorm on Wednesday afternoon. “Convective instability associated with thunderstorms could produce downdrafts and erratic winds, potentially increasing fire behaviour; however, this is not guaranteed,” said BCWS. As of Wednesday morning, all current evacuation orders and alerts remain in place. …On scene, there is currently an incident command team, 193 fire personnel, 147 structure protection personnel, 29 pieces of heavy equipment, and 14 helicopters providing 24-hour coverage of the blaze. On Wednesday morning, the Bald Range blaze is listed at 17,802 hectares and out of control. It is one of four wildfires of note in the province and one of 104 active wildfires.
More BC Wildfire coverage:
- Penticton Western News, by Barbara Roden: Ainslie Creek fire moving towards Highways 5 and 8 as more orders, alerts issued
- Penticton Western News, by Jordy Cunningham: Evacuation orders, alerts to remain in place Quilpituk Creek wildfire
- Nelson Star, by Gillian Francis: Crews make headway with wildfires near Kimberley
- Castanet, by Tim Petruk: Ainslie Creek fire approaches, does not cross control lines near Highway 8: BCWS
- Castanet, by Kathy Michaels: Highway 97 closure update expected on Saturday