The BC Wildfire Service is now holding the South Teepee Fire southeast of Cranbrook.
Originally deemed “out of control” as wildfire personnel, helicopters, air tankers, and heavy equipment all battled the blaze since it was first discovered on Wednesday, the BC Wildfire Service has since elevated the stage of control to “being held”.
That status, as described by the BC Wildfire Service means, “sufficient suppression action has been taken that the fire is not likely to spread beyond existing or predetermined boundaries under the prevailing and forecasted conditions.”
The South Teepee Fire was suspected to have been caused by a lightning strike, several of which hit the affected area during a large lightning storm that swept through the region July 23rd and 24th. According to the BC Wildfire Service those strikes can lay dormant for periods of time before igniting into a fire when conditions change.
More: Lightning Knocks Out Power Across East Kootenay Overnight (July 24, 2019)
BC Wildfire Service members continue to fight the blaze 30 kilometres southeast of Cranbrook and 15 kilometres east of Moyie until it is deemed “under control” or fully extinguished.
The South Teepee Fire is not a threat to structures or communities.
More: Air Tankers and Helicopters Attacking South Teepee Wildfire (August 1, 2019)
