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UPDATE 6:15 p.m.
The BC Wildfire Service says a fire burning outside of Lytton has now been mapped at 80 hectares.
“Crews have made good progress on the north flank of the fire using direct attack methods and assistance from five helicopters, two water tenders and two pieces of heavy equipment,” the agency said on Facebook. “Personnel will remain on site overnight.”
An evacuation alert remains in place for some nearby properties.
UPDATE: 12:55 p.m.
Steep terrain and smoke have posed a challenge for crews fighting the East of Skuppah wildfire near Lytton, which has some area residents on evacuation alert.
Fire Information Officer Taylor MacDonald said there are 35 crew members fighting the 60-hectare blaze, supported by four helicopters bucketing water.
Later on Thursday afternoon, 20 more firefighters are expected to arrive on scene, for a total of 55 personnel.
"There is lots of valleys and valley bottoms out in the Lytton area, so it has been a bit challenging for crews, just with that steep terrain. As well as that smoke and visibility have been a bit of an issue today as well, that smoke has been a bit thick at times," MacDonald said.
An evacuation alert has been issued for some Lytton residents.
ORIGINAL: 12:00 p.m.
An evacuation alert was issued Thursday for some residents living in the Lytton area due to a wildfire that grew quickly in size.
Alerts have been issued for 10 properties on George Road and the Trans-Canada Highway near Lytton.
Those under alert are urged to locate family members, pack essentials and prepare to move disabled and young relatives. Precautions should also be taken regarding livestock and travel accommodations.
The East of Skuppah fire, about seven kilometres south of Lytton, was first reported on Wednesday.
The blaze has grown significantly on Thursday morning, with the BC Wildfire Service’s size estimate increasing from 10 hectares to 60 hectares.
This story will be updated as more information becomes known.
Do you have photos or video of the fire, or do you live nearby? Email [email protected].
