Structure protection units move in the Shuswap as fire activity is expected to pick up

CHASE, B.C. — As fire behaviour continues to become more active, the Shuswap Emergency Program moved one of its Structure Protection Units to the Gateway Lakeview Resort entrance and another at the Scotch Creek Lee Creek Fire Hall.

In a news release, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) says winds are expected to pick up early Wednesday (Aug. 16) afternoon. The winds are expected to align with the location of the Nikwikwaia Creek, which the CSRD says will drastically increase fire behaviour along the east side of the Lower East Adams Lake wildfire.

According to the CSRD, the BC Wildfire Service reports smoke will be visible, but it should be moving away from Lee Creek due to the forecasted wind direction.

As of Tuesday night, the CSRD says 43 wildland firefighters, along with aircraft and 18 pieces of heavy equipment, are working to complete the hand line on the southwest guard for the Lower East Adams Lake wildfire.

All CSRD evacuation alerts remain in effect, as does the evacuation order affecting Adams Lake Indian Band lands south of Adams Lake Ferry Terminal.