BCWS skimmers, ground crews fight 115-hectare wildfire northeast of Kimberley

The BC Wildfire Service is reminding residents to stay clear of its crews, who are continuing to battle the 115-hectare Lussier River wildfire approximately 37 kilometres northeast of Kimberley.

BCWS skimmers, ground crews fight 115-hectare wildfire northeast of Kimberley Crews fight 115-hectare fire The BC Wildfire Service is reminding residents to stay clear of its crews, who are battling the 115-hectare Lussier River wildfire approximately 37 kilometres northeast of Kimberley. The fire was discovered Saturday and BCWS said in a Sunday update that milder winds and cooler temperatures have helped limit fire behaviour through Sunday morning. Heavy equipment has developed machine guards along the south flank and sections of the east flank.

Crews are reinforcing completed guard and tying sections together as more personnel arrive. There are two unit crews assigned to the blaze. A skimmer group and helicopters are continuing to fight the fire as well.

The Regional District of East Kootenay has issued an evacuation alert for 72 properties north and west of Premier Lake. Residents in the alert area are advised to have a to-go bag ready in the case the alert is upgraded. BCWS is reminding people in the area to make room for its crews to work.

“Aircraft need lots of space to collect water safely and quickly stay aware of your surroundings particularly in the Columbia Lake and Premier Lake areas,” the wildfire service said in a social media post. “If firefighting aircraft are nearby, clear the area and stay near the shore to avoid interfering with operations. Note that skimmers work in groups — if there is one on the lake, the others are likely nearby.”

More BC News - Fear, grief after shootingToronto - 12:35 pm - Crews fight 115-hectare fireKimberley - 12:11 pm - ER closing Sunday nightOliver - 12:08 pm - Adding to firefighting fleetTrail - 12:04 pm - Tower retail up for saleKelowna - 12:00 pm