The communities of Ashcroft and Cache Creek along with neighbouring properties in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District have been put on an evacuation alert because of the Tremont Creek wildfire.
“We wanted to advise you in advance because we want to emphasize that this is an alert only and we are doing this in an abundance of caution,” Cache Creek Fire Chief Tom Moe told residents in a statement.
“At this time Cache Creek is safe from fire danger but please use this opportunity to ensure you are prepared.”
Ashcroft Mayor Barbara Roden echoed a similar sentiment even though the fire is closer to her community.
“It was very visible against the night sky last night, and people are certainly more aware of it now,” Roden told NL News. “Of course, a lot of people in this area have very bad memories of 2017 and we’re trying to get the message across that this is precautionary.”
“As we found in 2017, misinformation and fear just thrives when there’s no communication coming out from a reputable source so we’re trying to let people know and keep them informed, and let them know where they can go for accurate information.”
A further 675 properties in the TNRD are on alert including the entire community of Savona, Walhachin, and the Thompson River Estates because of a threat to the structures and residents
An evacuation alert for 50 properties near Barnes Lake has also been upgraded to an evacuation order because of the Tremont Creek wildfire.
As of the latest update, the fire has ballooned in size to an estimated 780 hectares in size. It was discovered on Monday, July 12, and its currently burning out of control.
“Strong winds are anticipated on site again this afternoon,” the BC Wildfire Service said in an update at 12:20 p.m. today. “Heavy equipment are currently working to establish egress routes and once complete will begin to establish control lines.”
“Additional structure protection teams are on site doing further assessments.”
The Ashcroft Indian Band has also issued an evacuation alert for IR #2 (One Hundred Mile Post) and IR #4 (Ashcroft).
“We will continue to monitor the Tremont Creek fire and update our community on the status,” a statement from Chief Greg Blain said. “We are in regular communications with EMBC and BC Wildfire.”
“Please do not panic, we are not in any immediate danger. This is just a precaution, and you will be given as much advance notice as possible to any changing conditions.”
A highway alert is also expected to be put in place on the Trans Canada west from Savona to Cache Creek and then south towards the Spences Bridge area. Highway 1 is already closed from Spences Bridge to Hope because of the ongoing state of emergency in Lytton.
“Local residents are allowed up to George Road only otherwise detour via Highway 5,” a statement from DriveBC said. “Please avoid travel in this area unless absolutely necessary.”
(Photo via Shianne Elizabeth)