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More evacuation alerts issued for Garrison Lake wildfire

The blaze is now an estimated 8,400 hectares in size
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UPDATE: 4:30 p.m.

Another property has been placed on an evacuation alert due to the Garrison Lake wildfire.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS), has placed 1378 Whipsaw Cr Forestry Road on alert.

Proactive measures to prepare for an evacuation order are strongly advised.

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UPDATE: 11:40 a.m.

Another evacuation alert has been issued by the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) due to the Garrison Lake wildfire.

This alert is in effect for the area between the communities of Kennedy Lake and Eastgate.

Residents on evacuation alert should be prepared to evacuate the area should an evacuation order be issued.

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There has been very little growth on the Garrison Lake wildfire over the past few days, putting the blaze at an estimated size of 8,400 hectares.

Crews were able to work along the south flank of the fire to deal with the occasional spot flare-up, on Monday.

More than 5,000 liters of water hit the south flank and Bell Creek ravine every four minutes yesterday and it is expected to continue today.

Crews have made good progress putting machine guard in place and are beginning to work around the head of the fire. Heavy smoke in the area has resulted in visibility issues for aircrafts.

There is 13 BC wildfire personnel on-site along with two Bell 212 helicopters, 20 pieces of heavy equipment and two structural protection crews, who are working around Eastgate. Crews will resume spraying water throughout the community to protect structures from the flames.

On Saturday, July 31, 139 properties in Eastgate were placed under evacuation order. The following day 225 recreation sites at Kennedy Lake were put on evacuation alert.

The fire was discovered July 23 and was originally measured at 45 hectares. It grew steadily, sometimes doubling in size in one 24-hour period.

As the fire burns towards Highway 3 the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will continue to assess the situation and the risk to public safety.

READ MORE: Garrison Lake fire threatens Highway 3

READ MORE: White Rock Lake wildfire grows to 32,500 hectares

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Jen Zielinski

About the Author: Jen Zielinski

Graduated from the broadcast journalism program at BCIT. Also holds a bachelor of arts degree in political science and sociology from Thompson Rivers University.
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