Merging Fires: Lower East Adams Lake and Bush Creek East wildfires

KAMLOOPS — B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) announced that Lower East Adams Lake and the Bush Creek East wildfires have merged and will be referred to as the Bush Creek East fire going forward.

This comes after the Lower East Adams lake and Bush Creek East wildfires were pushed by significant northerly winds to extreme fire growth in a southward direction Friday evening into the night.

Due to poor visibility in the area, BCWS said an accurate perimeter couldn’t be obtained through geographic mapping. Thermal scanning was used to get the the latest perimeter and they say chances are that the data may be skewed by radiant heat.

“Airtankers did lay a line of retardant this morning (Saturday) above Little Shuswap Lake before visibility was reduced in this region”, said BCWS. According to them, a task force of engine trucks and water tenders are currently working in Sorrento to slow fire progression. They are working in the Elson Road area, removing fuel and extinguishing hot spots around structures.

BCWS explained structure protection crews are currently working in Lee Creek, Friedman Road area, Scotch Creek and Celista. Crews are also defending structures on Meadow Creek Road and Evans Road. As of last night, BCWS said, “heavy equipment and BC Hydro are working to remove damaged powerlines along Squilax-Anglemont Road and Holding Road.”

A Unit Crew and structure protection also were on Little Shuswap Lake Road as of last night. The crew is constructing a control line along the edge of the fire, above residences and will remain onsite until tied to a secure anchor point. Crews are also building a guard above properties up Loakin-Bear Road and are working to redirect fire growth to the north.