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West Kelowna  

Brenda Creek wildfire's advance east 'significantly reduced'

Ignition reinforces guard line

Crews are making progress containing a large wildfire burning near Brenda Mines.

The BC Wildfire Service says firefighters were able to reinforce a guard line on the east flank of the fire with a planned hand ignition Tuesday.

“This significantly reduced the risk of further growth to the east.” BCWS said, adding the Brenda Creek fire did not grow on Tuesday. It was last mapped at 824 hectares.

Crews continue to mop up under sections on the critical transmission line linking West Kelowna to BC Hydro’s grid while focusing containment efforts on the north and east flanks.

An infrared scan on those flanks was a possibility on Tuesday night in an effort to help crews to locate and extinguish hotspots on Wednesday. Five firefighters stayed on site overnight again to monitor the scene and protect high-value assets.

But with a heat warning now in place for the region and temperatures expected to hit 34 C in Kelowna on Wednesday, firefighters are preparing for flare ups.

“No precipitation is anticipated in the near future. These conditions will continue to challenge fire suppression efforts,” BCWS said.

Fifty-six firefighters, four helicopters and 20 pieces of heavy equipment are now assigned to the fire.

This story will be updated today as more information is known.



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