Update: Tuesdsay, Aug. 3, 6:17 a.m.

Six wildfires remain burning in the Harrison Hot Springs area after as many as seven at a time ignited due to multiple lightning strikes.

According to the B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) The Long Island wildfire in the northern half of Harrison Lake has razed about 49 hectares and triggered an evacuation alert, which is, as of Monday evening, still in effect. Five other wildfires were removed from the BCWS map on Monday evening but have been placed back on again as of Tuesday morning.

Fires at Clear Creek (0.2 hectares) Big Silver Creek (3 hectares), Hornet Creek (1 hectare) Cogburn Creek (Minimal), Talc Creek (0.10 hectares) and the largest current local fire, Long Island (49.70 hectares) are out of control. Talc Creek (0.1 hectares) is listed as under control, and Hornet Creek No. 2 no longer appears on the BCWS map.

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The evacuation alert for Long Island’s north side has been issued to help prepare residents in the area in the event evacuation becomes necessary. Residents will be given as much notice as possible.

Witnesses said Kent-Harrison Search and Rescue volunteers have been going door to door with information.

What you need to do when an evacuation order is in effect:

Upon notification of an evacuation alert, you need to be preparing for an evacuation order by:

• Locating all family members
• Designating a place outside of the evacuation area to meet should evacuation occur
• Gathering essential items like medication, eyeglasses and important documents.
• Having a plan to move children, the elderly, disabled persons and immobile neighbours. Have supplies, vet records and containment needs for pets and, where applicable, have a plan to move livestock to safety.
• Arranging transportation and accommodation for family members if possible.

In the event of an evacuation, Emergency Support Services may activate sites for family reunification, referrals to essential service providers and group lodging.

For up-to-the-minute alerts, download Alertable to your mobile device or register for critical alerts via text, email or phone call at www.fvrd.ca/alerts.

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BCWS has an aerial lightning patrol in the area that continue to monitor for fires.

“While lightning patrols are an efficient tool for spotting lightning caused fires, the Coastal Fire Centre is asking anyone in the vicinity who spots a column of smoke to please report it to 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cell phones,” The BCWS said in a statement.

There have been at least 14 wildfires in the Agassiz-Harrison area since the start of the year. There are currently 247 active wildfires throughout B.C. and a total of 1,308 for the year so far.

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Agassiz-Harrison Observer