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Wildfire Information Alert ended for Pincher Creek area but caution still advised in the area

Aug 2, 2018 | 8:46 PM

PINCHER CREEK —   The smell and haze brings to mind last fall’s Kenow fire. The current blaze isn’t far away from the fire that spread into the Waterton area

A wildfire burning near Wise Creek in the southeast corner of B.C. is creating smoky conditions in the Castle and Beaver Mines area.   Alberta Agriculture and Forestry is aware of the fire which is being monitored by the B.C. Forest Service.

Around 6:30-pm Thursday evening, the fire was determined to be 55-hectares in size. By 9:43 Alberta Emergency Alert confirmed the fire had reached 100-hectares but, had not crossed the Alberta/BC border.

An Alberta Emergency Information Alert was ended Thursday morning for the Pincher Creek area. That fire is still entirely in B-C. The region remains under an air quality advisory

However, an Air quality advisory continues for Pincher Creek, the Crowsnest Pass, and Waterton areas.  Residents with respiratory problems should close doors, windows and vents. Seek medical attention if breathing becomes difficult.  Check the Alberta Health Services website for updates on air quality advisories. 

The situation is being closely monitored by the municipality, Government of Alberta and Government of B.C. 

B.C. officials and officials from Alberta Agriculture and Forestry are conducting a fire growth model and assessment.

There are no immediate evacuation alerts or advisories.  However, it’s recommended that Visitors to the Castle Region stay close to their campsites and backcountry travel should be postponed in the Castle Wildland and Provincial Parks. 

 Visibility in some areas may be reduced.  

Communication can be expected via Alberta Emergency Alert and www.mdpinchercreek.ab.ca , as well and the MD of Pincher creek facebook site and twitter.  Residents who plan to camp on the weekend, should check with Alberta Fire to find out if camping areas are closed as precautionary measures and which areas have fire bans.