BC Wildfire Service expects Clinton-area fire activity to re-intensify

“Very strong downdrafts will occur with the frontal passage. Winds will increase in the afternoon, gusting 50 to 60 km/h and the cloud cover will thin to give periods of sunshine.”

The BCWS said temperatures are expected to be about 17 to 21 C, with relative humidity between 30 to 40 per cent.

“With this weather outlook, extreme fire behaviour is expected today and significant growth on these incidents is possible,” said Walbauer.

“Fuels remain heavily impacted by drought throughout the area and are highly susceptible to increased fire behaviour.”

This follows elevated fire activity on Monday, as well.

“The fire continued to be active along the north flank of the fire, both in the White Lake area and the Chasm area. The fire is mainly active on the west side of Highway 97. It was active throughout the night, displaying Rank 4 fire behaviour, meaning a highly vigorous surface fire with some crown fire and short-range spotting,” said Walbauer.

With the intensified fire behaviour, Walbauer said firefighters will focus on structure defense and keeping their crews safe.

“Structure protection personnel will be prioritizing work where there is active fire in and around structures, as well as triage and deployment of structure protection equipment ahead of the fire, where it is safe to do so,” said Walbauer.

“With the expected fire behaviour today, crews will be prioritizing safety and following the fire front for structure defense.”

Firefighters battling the Big Bar Complex fires will get a hand from two unit crews from Alberta.

The update comes as authorities in the Village of Clinton are assessing damage from the Pear Lake blaze.

The Thompson Nicola Regional District continues to have active evacuation orders and alerts in Chasm and the areas around the massive wildfire.

by Elora McCormack

BC Wildfire Service expects Clinton-area fire activity to re-intensify

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