Cool weather means fire bans lifted in Banff, Yoho and Kootenay national parks
1 of 2 fires burning in Kootenay National Park remains listed as out of control
One of two wildfires burning in Kootenay National Park remains listed as out of control but cool, wet weather in recent days is helping crews get a handle on it, officials said Thursday.
The Whitetail Creek wildfire — in the Vermilion Creek area of southeastern B.C. — had grown to 1,335 hectares, with 445 hectares of that burning inside Kootenay National Park, resource conservation manager Dwight Bourdin said in an update.
"No communities are at risk from this wildfire," he said. "Parks Canada and the B.C. Wildfire Service crews are working to ensure the Whitetail Creek fire remains within the containment lines established that have been put in by heavy equipment and using natural features such as creeks and streams. There is a containment strategy in place."
The Wardle Creek Fire — also in Kootenay National Park — is listed as held, meaning it is not expected to spread further.
"Crews will continue to monitor this fire until it is declared extinguished," said Bourdin.
There are 20 firefighters and two helicopters working the two fires.
The cool, wet weather has also allowed officials to lift fire bans in Banff, Yoho and Kootenay national parks.
"That means visitors visiting the national parks will be able to have a campfire in designated sites such as campgrounds," said Bourdin.
A fire ban remains in effect for the Redstreak Campground in the southern part of Kootenay National Park, however, due to drier conditions in that area of the park.
Smoke and flames have forced the closure of Highway 93 South several times this month. Bourdin said they don't expect any further closures; however, that could change.
"Right now, the highway is remaining open. It's status quo for right now," he said.
The fires were sparked in late July by separate lightning strikes.
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