Several homes damaged by Shetland Creek wildfire: TNRD
Posted July 23, 2024 10:18 am.
Last Updated July 23, 2024 2:56 pm.
As wildfires continues to spread in B.C., the Thompson-Nicola Regional District says at least six homes have been impacted by flames.
The TNRD says in a Damage Assessment that, as of Sunday, there were “confirmed impacts on slightly over 20 structures, 6 of which have been identified as primary residences” due to the Shetland Creek fire in the Venables Valley area.
“Damage assessment numbers in the area impacted by the Shetland Creek wildfire are preliminary at this time due to continued fire activity. The TNRD EOC has worked with a community liaison to ensure impacted residents are informed about next steps in recovery,” the district said online.
As of Monday, nearly 100 properties were on evacuation alert due to the wildfire. Over 200 properties remain on evacuation alert within the Village of Ashcroft and Spences Bridge.
Several orders and alerts are also in place in neighbouring areas, the TNRD adds, including the Cook’s Ferry Indian Band and Ashcroft Indian Band.
As of Tuesday morning, the Shetland Creek wildfire was estimated to be 19,9412 hectares. Located about 7.5 kilometres north of Spences Bridge, the fire is still listed as out of control.
“Today, July 23, is forecasted to be hot and dry similar to yesterday. Winds will be predominantly south southwesterly, approximately 10 to 15 km/hr with gusts up to 30 km/hr. Temperatures will remain in the 30’s with relative humidity values in the high teens for the afternoon. Medium range spotting may be seen with forecasted winds and as fuels remain dry and susceptible for ignition,” the BC Wildfire Service said online.
The Shetland Creek wildfire has forced the closure of Highway 1 between Spences Bridge and Ashcroft.
The BC Wildfire Service says almost 80 new fires were sparked on Monday, bringing the provincial total to 362 active fires. According to the service, the vast majority of new starts were sparked by dry lightning.
