Discovered: Friday, August 14, 2015

Size: 3,170.0 hectares (estimated)

Status: Active

• 60% contained
The Testalinda Creek wildfire, burning approximately seven kilometres south of Oliver, is now estimated at 3170 hectares. Airtankers, 11 helicopters and 228 personnel continue to work towards establishing containment.

The forecasted southerly winds caused heavy smoke to roll into the Oliver area Saturday early evening. This smoke is from the large Washington fires to the south. Smoke will hamper air support efforts over the fire.

Smoke from the Testalinda Creek wildfire may be seen, in Oliver and along Highway 97, as combustible material burns on the slopes around Hester Creeks. BC Wildfire Service personnel continue to work around the clock on establishing containment lines and controlling expected flare ups with ground crews, air support and when possible burn out operations.

Evacuation Alert is in effect.

An Evacuation Alert has been expanded and remains in place for residents in the Oliver area within the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen. For information on the alert go to the RDOS website.

Information on the alert is posted at: www.rdos.ca, call 250-492-0237 or toll-free 1-877-610-3737. Media are requested to contact 250-488-0285 for details on the alert.

More information
Heavy smoke from wildfires in Washington State has moved into the Okanagan Valley.

Here is where the smoke is coming from:
http://firesmoke.ca/

Here is the latest information on air quality advisories:
http://www.bcairquality.ca/

More Information:
Heather Rice
Fire Information Officer
250-212-3110

Resources
• 228 firefighters
• 11 helicopters
• 20 heavy equipment
Firefighters and equipment continue to work around the clock establishing containment lines.

Burn out operations will occur for the next few days to armour existing containment and contingency guards when weather permits.