(UPDATE) BCWS aircraft respond to Windy Creek wildfire

Updated May 11th, 8:30 p.m.: This article was updated to reflect an update to the wildfire’s size.

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) have reported an “out of control” wildfire near Moberly Lake and Highway 29.

According to BCWS, a wildfire discovered on May 11th near Windy Creek grew to 25 hectares as of a 7:55 p.m. update.

In a May 11th Facebook post, the BCWS reported the wildfire was located approximately 30 kilometres northeast of Chetwynd, and measured 35 hectares as of 8:30 p.m.

Ground crews, heavy equipment and airtankers are on site, working to slow the fire’s spread and create access routes to a water source.

“Additional ground resources, including a heavy equipment strike team, have been requested to support the response,” BCWS stated.

The fire is categorized as “out of control,” meaning it is spreading or anticipated to spread beyond the current perimeter or fire control line.

The service warned strong winds, elevated temperatures and dry conditions caused the blaze to “grow rapidly upon ignition,” and the fire has the potential for “growth to the north.”

The cause of the fire is under investigation, and as of 8 p.m. on May 11th, there are no area restrictions or evacuations for near the blaze.

Energeticcity.ca will update this story as more information becomes available.