As of noon today the Matthew Creek area restriction has been lifted.
The BC Wildfire Service is still responding to the Matthew Creek wildfire, roughly 10 kilometres west of Kimberley.
The wildfire covers an estimated 1,826 hectares.
The BC Wildfire Service rescinded the area restriction at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Oct. 7.
Officials said any area that’s been affected by wildfire can carry significant safety hazards such as unstable fire-damaged trees and hot ash pits. They said the public should be aware of the risks and travel carefully.
They added that although the area restriction is no longer in place, the Matthew Creek wildfire is still an active worksite, and officials retain the authority under the Wildfire Act to ask anyone to leave the area.
BC Wildfire Service officials said smoke from inside the burned area may continue for weeks, but smoke coming from unburned vegetation or outside the fire’s perimeter should be reported immediately.
Officials added that road closures and area restrictions could change depending on fire activity.
Anyone wanting the most current Southeast Fire Centre updates can visit the BC Wildfire Service website.
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