Update: 1:12 p.m.
A wildfire that has been burning north of Harrison Hot Springs since Tuesday evening has been re-classified as 鈥渂eing held鈥� at 8.2 hectares.
Update: 12:18 p.m.
The B.C. Wildfire Service has reported the Bear Creek fire has grown to 8.2 hectares.
Original story:
The Bear Creek wildfire north of Harrison Hot Springs has grown to five hectares.
According to B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS), the wildfire was ignited about 17 kilometres north of Harrison Hot Springs along the east forest service road. It was reported late Tuesday (May 14) evening.
The Bear Creek fire was likely human-caused. A vehicle that had been complete destroyed by fire was found at the side of the road next to the blaze.
The BCWS is battling the fire and local fire departments are on standby to assist. Witnesses reported seeing helicopters drop water on the blaze. Both the Harrison Hot Springs and Agassiz fire departments said they are aware of the fire and are asking visitors and residents travelling up the road to respect firefighting efforts.
RELATED:
As of Wednesday morning, the fire鈥檚 activity was markedly reduced but remains listed as 鈥渙ut of control.鈥� A crew of 14 are working on the fire, along with two helicopters and two response officers.
The road remains open at this time but traffic control will be in the area. The wildfire is currently not a risk to any structures or public safety.
The Bear Creek wildfire is the largest discovered in Agassiz-Harrison so far this year. There have been six wildfires in the area in 2024 to date, the majority of which were under one hectare.
To report wildfires or irresponsible behaviour that could start a wildfire, call 1-800-663-5555 (*5555 from a cell phone) as soon as possible.
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