WILdland FIRE FIGHTERS GAIN GROUND ON OKANAGAN FIRE

KELOWNA – Favourable weather conditions have assisted fire fighting efforts on the Okanagan Mountain Park fire; containment on the fire is now estimated to be 80%.

As weather conditions change over the next twelve hours, winds are expected to increase and challenge containment lines that have been established. Winds this evening are forecasted to be from the west and northwest gusting as high as 40 km/hr. The winds forecasted should not have a significant impact on fire behaviour due to the cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity.

Fire crews continue to re-enforce established control lines and protection of the remaining trestles remains a priority.

People are asked to avoid travelling in or near the affected areas for a look at the fire.  Congestion increases the risk of an accident and emergency officials need to be able to deploy equipment in a timely manner.