Bald Range wildfire crews face long road ahead, weekend rain could bring relief

Firefighters battling the Bald Range wildfire near Summerland still have significant work ahead, despite improving conditions that have allowed most residents to return home.

BC Wildfire Service says crews remain on the fire around the clock, patrolling for spot fires, strengthening containment lines and mopping up areas around homes and other structures. Work is particularly challenging along the southern and western portions of the blaze, where difficult terrain and access are slowing suppression efforts.

The fire is now estimated at about 24,100 hectares, with crews also building contingency lines that could be used if fire activity increases. Structure protection teams are continuing to work around Summerland, while aerial scans are helping firefighters identify areas of lingering heat.

And crews could get some help from the weather.

BC Wildfire Service says the threat from a major cold front has eased, although winds could still increase over the next few days. Scattered thundershowers are possible over the weekend, but significant rainfall is not guaranteed.

Any meaningful rain would be welcome on a fire that has been burning through exceptionally dry fuels. Crews will continue working around the clock while they prepare for changing conditions and protect communities around the fire.

Most Summerland properties have now been removed from evacuation orders, but about 80 properties remain under orders and 12 evacuation alerts are still in place.