Quilchena Creek wildfire continues to burn

The BC Wildfire Service continues to fight the Quilchena Creek wildfire which has grown to an estimated size of 839 hectares.

The fire is located about 20 kilometres East of Merritt and was first discovered on Sunday, April 4.

According to an update from the BC Wildfire Service, the fire is predominately burning in grass fuel types and open range topography.

Yesterday there was 27 fire personnel on-site with assistance from a helicopter. Crews were working to create containment lines around the blaze. Fire origin and cause personnel were also deployed on Tuesday. The fire is currently listed as human-caused.

Fire Information Officer Nicole Bonnett said it’s not uncommon to see these types of wildfires during this time of year, mainly due to dead fuel moisture.

“When the snow melts off, that top layer is quite dry and easily ignitable,” Bonnett said. “The fire activity we’ve seen so far is a good reminder to people that if you’re doing some yard work and using some fire… be mindful of all of the open burning regulations and all the rules around having a campfire. Especially so you’ve got the adequate tools and water on sight for the type of fire you’re using, so you are prepared if a gust of wind or something comes along, and the fire use doesn’t get beyond what your intended activity is.”

A second wildfire near the Shackan Indian Band is now under control and did not expand past the original 0.80 hectares.