The Thompson-Nicola Regional District Emergency Operations Centre is anticipating a possible increase in wildfire activity this weekend. This follows what the TNRD says has been a “relatively stable” few days for most of the region. Currently, hot and dry conditions are in the current forecast for Friday and Saturday, which could lead to unpredictable weather, including strong, erratic winds. There is also the potential for lightning that could spark new fires, especially if the region sees no rain. The TNRD says because of the potential risks, it is unlikely there will be a reduction of any evacuation orders or alerts currently in place before next week. Included in those evacuation orders are approximately 118 properties due to the Ainslie Creek wildfire, 80 properties near the Pear Lake fire, and another 10 properties due to the French Bar Creek wildfire. Those three wildfires cover more than 3,000 square kilometres, and there are approximately an additional 2,361 properties that remain on evacuation alert due to fires in the region. The TNRD says those evacuation orders will be reassessed after the weekend, when more stable weather conditions are expected to return beginning Monday. TNRD says any residents still evacuated can access the Resiliency Centre, located at the Clinton Curling Club, approximately 40 kilometres north of Cache Creek. Anyone affected looking for information on current evacuation orders and alerts can visit the TNRD website
