Some good news in the south Cariboo as the BC Wildfire Service continues to fight the Flat Lake wildfire that has forced thousands of evacuation orders and alerts south of 100 Mile House, including the entire community.

The BC Wildfire Service says because of suppression efforts, the fire has not yet reached the highway, and it has been reopened.

“An advisory remains in place regarding smoky conditions in the area. The highway could be closed again on short notice,” a statement says.

The Flat Lake fire is estimated at 8,725 hectares in size, and its growing east towards the highway and north.

“Heavy equipment has been establishing machine guards and connecting to existing features, such as roads and lakes, which serve as natural fuel breaks,” the Wildfire Service said. “Helicopters will continue to support with bucketing activities today.”

“Due to fire behaviour, it is difficult for ground crews to engage in direct suppression at this time.”

There are structural protection specialists on scene today as well working to protect homes in the area that are at risk.

“Additional fire growth is expected today due to wind conditions. The opportunity for aerial ignitions is being examined on the west flank of the fire,” added the BCWS. “This controlled ignition would bring the edge of the fire to a control line in an area this is workable by ground crews. Ignitions will only occur if conditions are suitable.”

Travel advisory is in effect due to #BCWildfire and future closures possible with very limited notice. @DriveBC for updates: https://t.co/AeJUg5FaPH https://t.co/Xz5BPvbaDQ

— BC Transportation (@TranBC) July 15, 2021