The Thompson-Nicola Regional District has expanded an evacuation alert due to the Ross Moore Lake fire to include nine more properties, south of Kamloops.

The alert, which is effective as of 9 a.m. Thursday, includes the following properties in Electoral Areas J (Copper Desert Country) and L (Grasslands), all located to the south of the fire.

• 7745 Hwy 5A
• 8745 Kullagh Lake Rd
• 8749 Kullagh Lake Rd
• 8765 Kullagh Lake Rd
• 8805 Kullagh Lake Rd
• 10055 Kamloops-Merritt Hwy 5A
• 10065 Kamloops-Merritt Hwy 5A
• 11365 Kamloops-Merritt Hwy 5A
• 11425 Kamloops-Merritt Hwy 5A
• any properties as outlined in the attached map.

It means there are now 352 addressed properties in the TNRD that are on evacuation alert, while only two – 5140 and 5240 Lac Le Jeune Road – on evacuation order at this time, as outlined here.

The alert comes as the BC Wildfire Service said windy conditions yesterday, Aug 16, led to a two kilometre run on the Ross Moore Lake fire’s south flank. It is warning of the possibility of extreme fire behaviour today – and some increased activity on the south flank – with wind speeds of 25 km/hr and gusts of 50 km/hr possible.

“Winds will be light from the southwest and gradually get stronger throughout the day today,” the Wildfire Service said. “Peak winds are expected to occur during peak burning times in the heat of the day.”

“A cold front passing overnight will cause winds to shift from southwest to northwest. Winds of 20km/hr gusting 40 km/hr will remain high overnight and continue throughout the day on Friday.”

The Wildfire Service says as the cold front passes, it could causes a 180-degree wind shift, resulting in winds from the north.

The Ross Moore Lake is now an estimated 78.5 square kilometres, up from the previous 72.5 square kilometre estimate.

Much of the fire perimeter is said to be in the mop up, patrol, and extinguishment phases.

For the latest on evacuation orders and alerts in the TNRD, go here.