The evacuation order area has been reduced as firefighters continue making progress on the Wait Creek wildfire near Ta Ta Creek, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) said.
The RDEK announced that evacuation restrictions have been eased for some residents after crews made gains on the fire.
An evacuation order remains in effect for 23 dwellings west of the BC Hydro transmission line, while an evacuation alert remains in place for 27 dwellings west of the transmission line.
The evacuation order and evacuation alert have both been lifted for all properties east of the BC Hydro transmission line, including those in the Wasa and Lazy Lake areas.
“There are still 23 dwellings WEST of the Transmission Line that remain on Evacuation Order and 27 that remain on Evacuation ALERT as these properties are closest to the active area of the fire,” said information officer Loree Duczek. “It is important for residents who are on Alert to continue to remain aware and prepared should conditions change.”
To assist residents returning home, the RDEK will open a resiliency centre from 5 to 9 p.m. today at the Wasa Community Hall.
Services available at the centre will include Canadian Red Cross cleanup kits, Salvation Army meal service and basic food supplies, therapy dogs, Emergency Support Services volunteers and provincial staff available to help evacuees cope with the emotional impacts of the emergency.
The RDEK said no homes have been reported destroyed by the fire, although the BC Wildfire Service has reported damage to some outbuildings.
Wildfire crews continue reinforcing containment lines, patrolling for spot fires and removing dangerous trees to make the area safe for returning residents. Officials said the fire remains an active worksite and asked the public to obey road closures, traffic control and emergency crews working in the area.
Residents who remain displaced can register for Emergency Support Services at ess.gov.bc.ca before calling the RDEK information line at 250-426-2188 to speak with an Emergency Support Services volunteer. Assistance is available only to people displaced from their primary residence.
The RDEK said additional updates will be issued if conditions change. Information is available at www.rdek.bc.ca, on the RDEK Facebook page or by calling the information line at 250-426-2188 or toll-free at 1-855-346-2188.
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