The fire near the village of Sayward has grown since yesterday, from 90 to 160 hectares in the latest update from the provinces wildfire service.
A digital update at approximately 12:30 p.m. May 31 from B.C. Wildfire Service says that the fire, believed to be human caused still rages north of Haite Lake near Newcastle Creek.
READ MORE: UPDATE: Wildfire along Highway 97 near Vernon now under control
“The fire remains out of control,” said Nick Connelly of the BC Wildlife Service. “The size adjustment is due to more accurate mapping. We had poor visibility of parts of the fire and the skies are clearer today.”
In addition, the fire which initially burning in a slash, has caused some additional fuels to burn within its expected perimeter.
Connelly said that was anticipated.
“Fire behaviour is is lower when it reaches the timber,” said Connelly. “Deeper fuels still contain quite a bit of moisture at the moment.”
60 firefighters are on scene today, up from 55 yesterday. Connelly said the immediate area will be affected by the smoke.
He also maintains that despite the growth of the fire, no evacuation orders are in place, and no infrastructure or residential homes are at risk at this time.
All eyes are on Sayward Mayor Mark Baker, who will be holding a briefing at 3:30 pm this afternoon as the wildfire continues to burn for its third day.
