The Shetland Creek fire north of Spences Bridge has more than doubled in size due to what the BC Wildfire Service describes as “significant overnight growth” and more accurate mapping.

The lighting-caused fire is now estimated to be 12,400 hectares or 124 square kilometres in size., up from 5,700 hectares or 57 square kilometres.

There are now 85 properties in the TNRD on evacuation order, along with an unknown number in the Cooks Ferry Indian Band.

Hundreds of other properties across numerous jurisdictions between Spences Bridge and Ashcroft remain on evacuation alert.

The Wildfire Service says the Shetland Creek fire advanced about six kilometres in the northwest direction parallel to Highway 1 Thursday night.

There is a travel advisory in effect for the Trans-Canada Highway between Spences Bridge and Cornwall Road, south of Cache Creek. DriveBC says the highway may be forced to close on short notice.

It is also reminding commercial drivers that Highway 8 between Merritt and Spences Bridge is not an option for them.

The Wildfire Service also says conditions are hot, dry, and windy, and there’s potential for continued substantial growth of the fire today.

“Wind speeds will range from south-southwesterly 15-20km/hr with gusts of 50km/hr, especially in the upper slope regions of the fires,” it said in an update this morning.

“Winds will remain dry and temperatures will remain in the high 30’s with relative humidity values in the low teens for the afternoon. Medium range spotting will continue with forecasted winds and as fuels remain dry and susceptible for ignition.”

The service says 71 firefighters and six helicopters are currently battling the blaze in addition to structure protection personnel, heavy equipment operators, and an incident management team.

It notes two initial attack crews, a structure protection engine, and a Wildfire Officer were onsite overnight last night to install and maintain structure protection apparatus in the vicinity of the Venables Valley and surrounding community.