KFR closely monitoring aggressive wildfire south of Kamloops, city on high alert: A critical situation demands immediate action in combating the raging blaze.

Kamloops Wildfire Continues to Grow, Posing Threat to City

By | July 12, 2021 | Kamloops, BC

Update: BC Wildfire Service Takes Action Against Ross Moore Lake Wildfire

According to the BC Wildfire Service, a heavy equipment task force will be working to combat the Ross Moore Lake wildfire throughout the day on Sunday. The fire, burning 13 kilometers south of Kamloops, remains at 1,800 hectares in size. BCWS personnel, supported by aerial assistance, will be on the scene for the entirety of the day, as long as visibility and safety conditions permit.

Kamloops Fire Rescue crews are closely monitoring the aggressive blaze burning south of Aberdeen and are prepared to take action if required. The City of Kamloops activated its emergency operations center on Saturday, responding to significant growth of the Ross Moore Lake fire due to hot weather and gusty winds. The fire now covers an estimated 1,800 hectares, a dramatic increase from less than 100 hectares on Saturday morning.

Evacuation Orders and Alerts

As a result of the Ross Moore Lake fire, 49 properties south of Kamloops are currently under evacuation order, and hundreds more residents remain on alert. The City of Kamloops is urging residents to download the Voyent Alert app to stay updated on evacuation alerts and orders.

Fire’s Rapid Growth Raises Concerns

The aggressive wildfire, believed to have been caused by a lightning strike during a Thursday night storm, has doubled in size from 700 hectares to 1,800 hectares. It has moved approximately 10 kilometers closer to Kamloops, now located 13 kilometers south of the city. The fire is burning between the Coquihalla Highway and Highway 5A.

The swift growth of the fire on Saturday resulted in a large plume of smoke visible south of Kamloops and prompted officials to expand evacuation orders and issue additional evacuation alerts. The situation remains critical as the fire continues to pose a direct threat to the city.

Weather Conditions and Response Efforts

According to Environment Canada’s forecast, Kamloops can expect dry and warm weather on Sunday, with a high of 33°C and 20 km/h winds from the southwest, gusting to 40 km/h in the afternoon. The direction of the winds is of particular concern, as they are blowing towards the city, exacerbating the fire’s potential impact.

The BC Wildfire Service is working diligently to manage the fire and combat its spread. However, the fire crews did not stay at the site overnight, although contractors remained to monitor Trans Mountain pipeline infrastructure in the area.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The escalating wildfire near Kamloops serves as a stark reminder of the increasing threat of wildfires in the region, necessitating proactive measures to prevent and mitigate their impact. As climate change continues to contribute to hotter and drier conditions, it is imperative that communities take heed and implement strategies to protect lives and property.

The current situation demands preparedness and vigilance from both residents and authorities. It is crucial for individuals in evacuation order areas to comply with instructions and swiftly move to safety. Those on alert should remain alert to updates and be ready to respond if necessary.

Furthermore, local and regional governments must invest in resources, infrastructure, and training to effectively combat wildfires. This includes enhancing firefighting capabilities, implementing proper land management practices, and promoting community awareness and education.

As the fire continues to grow and cause concern for Kamloops, it is our collective responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents. Through coordinated efforts and a united approach, we can better mitigate the risks posed by wildfires and build more resilient communities.