A wildfire of note in the Kamloops Fire Centre as BC Wildfire crews are responding to the Christie Mountain wildfire that is burning about 6 km north of Okanagan Falls on the east side of Skaha Lake.

It is now estimated at 250 hectares in size, up from the previous 10 hectares. Firefighters are being supported by air tankers. Smoke is visible in nearby communities including in downtown Penticton.

“We anticipate we will see further growth once we are able to get a more accurate track of the fire,” the BCWS says in a statement, while noting the fire is burning in difficult rocky sloped terrain with limited access points for ground crews.

“Reports have indicated the fire is an active surface fire with an organized flame front. The BC Wildfire Service would like to advise people to please stay clear of this area in order to not interfere with ongoing air tanker operations.”

As of 5 p.m., the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen has issued an evacuation order for 319 properties in the area. More information is here.

Meanwhile, residents of 44 properties near the 4.5 hectare Solomon Mountain wildfire, which is 4 km north of Beaverdell, have been put on evacuation alert by the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary. This particular fire is believed to be lightning caused.

“Crews are on-site with aerial and heavy equipment support as required, along with the assistance of the local fire department,” noted the Wildfire Service.

Fire Information Officer Gagan Lidhran previously told NL News that several new wildfires across Kamloops Fire Centre since yesterday are believed to be human caused.