Hot, dry and windy conditions over the weekend caused some fire growth on the northern and northwestern flanks of the Bush Creek East wildfire.
The BC Wildfire Service is aware of the increase in smokes from hotspots within the fire’s perimeter, however, the agency says this is common with large wildfires.
“Although we are entering the fall season, nearby communities can still expect to see smoke within the perimeter over the coming weeks,” says the BCWS.
Monday will be a mainly cloudy day with a small chance of showers in the Shuswap region and the temperature is forecast to sit between 15-20ºC.
Those cooler temperatures are expected to stick around overnight and into Tuesday, which will provide some relief for firefighters.
There are 190 firefighters, 31 support staff, 30 pieces of heavy equipment and 11 helicopters working the fire on Monday.
Crews are mopping up, patrolling and extinguishing hot spots in areas where the fire is less active near Adams Lake.
Some growth was seen south of Agate Bay on Saturday, says the BCWS and crews are working to build containment lines and slow growth in that area.
Crews working on the north side of Little Shuswap Lake are working to cool hotspots closest to the urban interface and are continuing overnight patrols for future areas of work.
Crews are using direct attack methods to minimize the fire’s spread near Sorrento and the Turtle Valley area.
A special air quality statement is in place for Salmon Arm, Sicamous, and Chase due to the increase in smoke.
Environment Canada recommends people who are sensitive to the smoke to take extra precautions to protect themselves by staying indoors if possible or limiting time outside.
The fire remains estimated at 43,380 hectares.
