Wildfire near Jaffray under control

(Supplied by RDEK)

A lightning-caused wildfire in a forested area near Jaffray has been fully extinguished.

It was discovered on July 4 and grew to approximately 1.1 hectares.

“It’s contained and under control,” said Elk Valley and South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service Chief Michael Hockley.

“We’re going to go back out there and ensure that there was no further extension overnight.”

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Thirteen firefighters and five pieces of apparatus responded to the call and it was confined to the forested area.

They believe it was a holdover fire from storms earlier in the week.

“With the severe thunderstorm warnings we’ve had over the past few days, there was isolated heavy rainfall, strong winds and lightning across various parts of the region,” Hockley added.

“This is an example of how a day or two after one of those big storms, small hold-over fires can get more fully established.”

The potential for new fire starts is expected to rise this weekend as temperatures get up into the mid-30s.

Hockley said residents should be extra cautious.

“If you do have campfires just ensure that you do put it out thoroughly,” he said.

“If you see any smoke or fire call 911 or the BC Wildfire Service.”


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