Fraser Complex Evening Update
Shovel Lake Wildfire (R11498)
Location: approx. 6km north of the community of Fraser Lake
Status: 86,850 hectares (mapped—infrared scan)
Cause: under investigation
Resources: 236 firefighters, 46 pieces of heavy equipment, 8 helicopters (shared in the complex)
Status: The Shovel Lake wildfire experienced unpredicted aggressive fire behaviour on the north flank tonight. Heavy wind and fuels contributed to aggressive fire behaviour near the Sutherland River Protected Area. In the northeast corner, a finger of fire moved 8 km through slash, and is in larger containment lines at this point. Crews are working late on the line in an effort to suppress fire activity on the northeastern flank. The thick smoke has reduced visibility to below the legal flying limit for several days and without air support such as helicopters, skimmers, and air tankers crews were challenged today. Favourable winds tomorrow should allow air operations to occur in the morning which will allow crews to be supported from the air.
Island Lake Wildfire (R11921)
Location: Adjacent to Island Lake
Status: 17,291 hectares (mapped—infrared scan)
Cause: Under investigation
Resources: 65 firefighters, 24 pieces of heavy equipment, 9 helicopters (shared in the complex)
Objectives: Air support has been grounded for the most part of the last three days. There was a 120 hectare excursion to the south of Anzus Lake running southeast towards Borel Lake four days ago. Equipment has gone ahead of this excursion and has created guard to stop further growth. Crews continue to monitor for and extinguish any spot fires. Ground crews and heavy equipment are continuing to work off the 238 Road to build a fuel free containment line. Structural firefighters are monitoring for values in need of structural protection in the area and on the lakeshore.
To read more about these fires click on the link below:
http://darac.sg-host.com/wp-content/uploads/18_71W19GC_Wildfire_Update_Fraser_Complex_Aug_22_-_PM.pdf
