K41796 – Hullcar Mountain fire update

August 9th, 0930 Hours (9:30 am)

Way’ Members,

Last night was another night with minimal fire growth, with most activity occurring along the Northern perimeter. Currently the fire is estimated at 700 hectares. Smoke will continue to be visible within the fire, especially along the Northern edge of the fire. The Southern perimeters facing OKIB continues to be stable, with ground crews moving along the perimeter putting out hot spots. Last night crews supported by the heavy helicopter worked throughout the night securing guards.

Today there will be a similar number of wildfire crew working with around 70 firefighters, supported by aerial assets such as helicopters and skimmers.

Please be advised that you may notice an increase in smoke as BC Wildfire crews perform small hand ignitions to mitigate the unburnt fuel within the fire’s perimeter and bring the burnt area up the to fire’s guard edge. This ensures that there is less likelihood of the fire jumping a fire break during increased winds.

Environment Canada forecasts a 60% chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms for today with the possibility of scattered storms continuing into the evening. Tomorrow Saturday August 10th will also have a lower chance of showers and thunderstorms at 30%.

As a reminder OKIB urges watercraft users to stay off the North arm of Okanagan Lake, allowing BC Wildfire aircraft the required space needed to access water for firefighting.

The OKIB EOC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates when possible.

Photos: Overview of the South flank facing OKIB and Northwest flank, courtesy of OKIB EOC field crew.