Update 5:00 p.m.:
The Skaha Creek wildfire has grown to over six hectares in the space of a few hours as BC Wildfire continues to attack with aerial resources.
In addition to the skimmers and air tankers dropping retardant along the flanks, 23 ground personnel are also now on scene.
Once the current planes complete their objectives, or conditions shift, BC Wildfire plans to switch to using helicopters to continue fighting the fire.
Update 2:30 p.m.:
The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) is responding to a wildfire six kilometres southwest of Penticton.
The Skaha Creek wildfire is estimated to be 0.3 hectares in size and is classified as out of control.
Three BCWS personnel are on the ground, while one helicopter and multiple air tankers and skimmers are in the air, fighting the blaze.
The fire is suspected to be human-caused.
BCWS reminds those out on the water to stay clear of BCWS aircraft.
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Original story:
A new wildfire is burning behind the Penticton Airport.
It appears the fire is burning on the back side of the hill near Skaha Estates.
BC Wildfire Service aerial resources are mobilizing to fight the fire. A Black Press reporter on scene said it appears that skimmer planes and water bombers have both been deployed.
More to come.
Read more: Firefighters from Mexico assisting with Mount Law wildfire near West Kelowna
Read more: Penticton mayor sues family over co-owned property
Do you have something else we should report on? Email: zachary.roman@saobserver.net
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