UPDATE: Evacuation alerts issued for more parts of Castlegar
By Kyra Hoggan
An interface wildfire near Castlegar has grown to seven hectares and is zero per cent contained, according to BC Wildfire Service, but the City of Castlegar Emergency Operations Centre says the blaze within city limits is contained.
Twenty-five firefighters, two airtankers and two helicopters are attacking the fire.
“At 5:20 p.m., the City issued an Evacuation Alert for the following:
- -14th Avenue North of Highway 3
- -Forest Road
- -Grosvenor Place.
“During an evacuation alert, this is the time to get prepared to leave your home on short notice. Get your grab-and-go bags ready (which should include several days of clothing, toiletries and medications), your emergency plan, copies of important documents and important mementos.
“We are still waiting on a general phone number for the Emergency Services for evacuated residents at the Castlegar & District Community Complex and will share it as soon as possible.
“Get the most current info on the Merry Creek Wildfire at castlegar.ca/wildfire.”
Previous coverage:
The CIty of Castlegar Emergency Operations Centre is reporting that, as of 3:30 p.m., the fire within City limits has been contained but is still burning North West of Hiwy 3 near the Merry Creek Forest Services Road.
All those evacuated from Castleview Care Centre have been transported to the Castlegar and District Recreation Centre.
The BC Wildfire Service tweeted earlier that they are currently responding to the Merry Creek wildfire located approximately eight km southwest of Castlegar, with multiple ground crews from local fire departments, two helicopters, and two planes.
“This fire is highly visible from Castlegar, Hwy 22 and surrounding areas. Currently, it is estimated at approximately two hectares in size. The fire is suspected to be human caused.”
The RDCK OEC reported at 2:22 p.m., Evacuation Orders are in place for:
- Meadowbrook Drive
- Tassone Place
- Highland Drive
- Castleview Care Centre
Currently there are no Evacuation Alerts at this time.
Those under Evacuation Order or if you need further information please go to the Castlegar and District Recreation Centre, 2101 6th Avenue.
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