KOOTENAY NATIONAL PARK – A wildfire that started on the slopes of Sinclair Canyon in Kootenay National Park on Wednesday (July 24) is now under control, but Parks Canada is keeping a close eye on a growing blaze just outside the southern boundary of the national park.
A fire that started on July 24 on B.C. provincial land, known as the Ravens Head wildfire, had grown to 4,700 hectares by Thursday evening (July 25) and is considered out-of-control.
“It is anticipated to spread beyond the current perimeter, or control line,” according to B.C. Wildfire.
A state of local emergency was declared on Thursday by the Regional District of East Kootenay.
In addition, an evacuation order was also issued Thursday around 3 p.m. for the Palliser/Cross River area, directing people to leave immediately after the fire experienced “significant growth” in the north overnight Wednesday and poses “an immediate danger to life safety”.
As a result, Nipika Mountain Resort just outside the boundary of Kootenay National Park off Settlers Road is temporarily closed due to the Ravens Head fire.
There is currently no access to the resort and Cross River Canyon recreation site.
“The Nipika Mountain Resort was tactically evacuated,” states B.C. Wildfire.
“The fire is burning towards the Yearling Creek fire that occurred last year, which has slowed the growth of this fire. “
The evacuation order is also in effect for Cross River Education & Retreat Centre, Cross River Forest Service Road and Cross River Canyon recreation site.
Parks Canada officials say fire personnel are monitoring the situation closely, and are in constant contact with B.C. Wildfire.
“This fire may become visible from Kootenay Valley viewpoint,” said Parks Canada in the release.
“More information will be provided on this wildfire if it enters Kootenay National Park.”
Meanwhile, the fire on the slopes of Sinclair Canyon near the Village of Radium Hot Springs, known as the Berland Ridge wildfire, has been brought under control by Parks Canada firefighters.
“Thanks to a helicopter bucketing water followed by a fire crew who were safely able to work on the fire, the fire is under control,” states the federal agency in a release.
