The Skaha Creek wildfire near Penticton, Aug. 29, 2021.
Image Credit: Dan Walton
August 29, 2021 - 3:13 PM
A wildfire burning to the southwest of Penticton has grown to 25 hectares in size this afternoon.
The Skaha Creek wildfire was discovered yesterday, Aug. 28 and is roughly six kilometres away from the city. It was last listed at 17 hectares in size this morning, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service.
B.C. Wildfire Service information officer Taylor MacDonald said the fire is burning in a northern direction along a ridge line and is not burning towards any communities at this time.
Area residents noticed more smoke from the fire this afternoon and MacDonald said the fire has grown throughout the day.
There are 20 personnel, nine skimmers and one piece of heavy equipment on site today, she said.
The City of Penticton has warned residents the wildfire may impact flights at the Penticton Regional Airport.
"Although the Skaha Creek Wildfire is not a threat to properties within the boundaries of the City of Penticton, the response may affect services at the Penticton Regional Airport as well as recreational boating on Skaha and Okanagan Lakes," according to a press release issued by the city.
The city is asking those flying in or out of Penticton Regional Airport to check the airport's website for an update on flight conditions.
"Recreational boaters on Skaha and Okanagan Lakes are also asked to stay close to shore to allow aircraft responding to the nearby wildfire to collect lake water."
The wildfire is still classified as out of control and suspected to be human caused.
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