The area east of 100 Mile House received lightning last night, which started a number of new fires, according to the BC Wildfire Service Facebook page.
Crews stayed overnight on the fire near the east end of Canim Lake, C41703, and more resources are arriving to that fire this morning. Fire behaviour on C41703 this morning is quiet and the area received rain last night.
A helicopter will be in the air this morning in order to assess and prioritize fires in the area. Helicopters, heavy equipment and crews will be used to action fires. Airtankers can be called in to assist if needed, visibility permitting.
Due to increased fire activity in the Bald Mountain area in the Chilcotin, the BC Wildfire Service has recommended the immediate closure of Highway 20 (east and west directions) from the Fraser River to the Alex Graham/600 Road until further notice.
The Farwell Canyon Road is also closed.
The Hanceville fire covers 179,768 hectares, is exhibiting aggressive Rank 5 and Rank 6 fire behaviour and is being driven by strong winds. This temporary road closure will help protect public safety and allow firefighters and firefighting equipment to move through this area more easily.
As of the afternoon of Aug. 12, 338 firefighters, an Incident Management Team, 13 aircraft and 86 pieces of heavy equipment were assigned to this fire.
The closure of Highway 20 will remain in effect until further notice. For more information and updates on the status of Highway 20, please visit: www.drivebc.ca
Travellers are urged to avoid this area, since fire behaviour and weather conditions can change rapidly. Updates on the Hanceville fire and the status of this road closure will be provided if conditions change.
To report a wildfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, go to: www.bcwildfire.ca
