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Strong winds and hotter weather a cause for concern on Brenda Creek fire

Brenda Creek: wind concern

UPDATE 11:15 a.m.

The Brenda Creek fire is now listed at an estimated 824 hectares in size, up from 662 hectares yesterday.

It remains out of control.


ORIGINAL 8:28 a.m.

The weather could reverse some of the progress made fighting the Brenda Creek wildfire, burning south of the Okanagan Connector, west of West Kelowna.

The BC Wildfire Service says temperatures will be warmer in the coming days, which could lead to increased fire activity. A forecast high-pressure system has moved to the north, and strong winds may occur. That could challenge guard lines that crews have been working to build.

They are continuing to reinforce guard line sections on the northwest corner of the fire, by burning off fuel between the guard and the fire.

Helicopters are also expected to continue dropping water onto hotspots today and will be dipping into nearby lakes.

The most active part of the fire was near the southwest flank, where fire behaviour continues to threaten the BC Hydro transmission line.

A high volume water delivery system has been set up to protect the line. It can be turned on quickly if the flames get too close.

So far, the transmission line that carries power to West Kelowna, the Westbank First Nation, and Peachland remains operational.



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