The RDEK has rescinded the evacuation orders for the Whiteswan Lake area that were issued due to the Mt. Morro wildfire burning remotely northeast of Cranbrook and Kimberley.
The orders were first announced on July 25 following significant wildfire growth, which covered four private properties as well as the Home Basin Campground and Inlet Creek Campground on Whiteswan Lake.
“Following the recent significant precipitation on the fire and given current fire behaviour, the BC Wildfire Service has recommended a full rescind of the Evacuation Order,” says Loree Duczek, RDEK Information Officer.
While the evacuation order has been rescinded, an area restriction remains in place, which covers Lussier Hot Springs, Whiteswan Lake, Alces Lake, and Top of the World Park.
“It is important for the public to adhere to the Area Restrictions and to check to see if there are closures or restrictions in effect no matter where their backcountry travels take them this summer,” said Duczek.
According to the B.C. Wildfire Service, the fire remains over 11,000 hectares in size, and remains classified as a modified response. A structure protection specialist has been assigned to conduct assessments as necessary, while regular flights are occurring to monitor fire behaviour and progress.
Elsewhere in the East Kootenay, the Lost Dog fire north of Kimberley continues to burn at an esimated size of over 800 hectares.
Fire growth has been mainly at higher elevations while guard construction continues, with a particular focus on the northern flank above valley bottoms in order to keep the fire away from Skookumchuck Creek.
Containment guards to the west and south have been established, per the BC Wildfire Service. An area restriction limiting public access has been put in place.
East of Invermere, the Ravenhead wildfire is up to an estimated 8,000 hectares. An evacuation order is in place for the Palliser/Cross River Area, which includes nine properties as well as the Nipika Mountain Resort.
The B.C. Wildfire Service has implemented an area restriction around the fire, restricting public access to the vicinity.
