The recent rainfall has helped in fighting wildfires in the area. The wildfire burning northwest of Cherry Lake is covering 1250 hectares, but is now 10 percent contained. BC Wildfire Service reported the fire to be 1000 hectares in size on Aug. 28, but grew 250 hectares by Aug. 29.
On Aug. 31, the fire had 53 people, 12 pieces of heavy equipment and eight helicopters working to contain the fire, said Karlie Shaughnessy, a fire communication specialist at the Southeast Fire Centre.
“The road restrictions on forest service roads (FSR) near Cherry Lake have been lifted. People are now allowed to access Jim Creek Forest Service Road at 34 kilometer and Main Caven Creek Forest Service Road at 27 kilometer,” Shaughnessy said.
As of 12 p.m. on Aug. 31, the fire ban in the area has been lifted. Campfires are now allowed, as long as they are under a half-meter high by a half-meter wide. “We do still have restrictions in place, so any other type of open fire – fireworks, open barrel, anything like that is still prohibited,” said Shaughnessy.
There was another small fire near Coal Creek. A cottonwood tree was struck by lightening and was ablaze. An initial attack crew contained the fire on Aug. 31.
For updates on the fire and any FSR closures, visit www.bcwildfire.ca.