The RDKB Emergency Operations Centre is advising that unless there is a change in the wildfire situation the next update can be expected at 12:00pm August 23, 2015.
THERE ARE NO EVACUATION ALERTS FOR GRAND FORKS OR CHRISTINA LAKE AT THIS TIME.
Wildfire Update for August 22, 2015.
Stickpin Fire:  The BC Fire service is monitoring the winds that are impacting the direction of the fire. The fire is· approximately 19,000ha and 15% contained.  Significant resources are being mobilized to Christina Lake in preparation should the winds push· the fire to the north-east.  U.S crews have created a guard along the west flank, and are now focusing on the northernmost· flank.
There has been minimal growth on this fire overnight, and most of the growth has been to the east. There are no evacuation alerts or orders associated with this fire for residents north of the border. For information about fires in the U.S, please visit: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov  BC Fire crews have been deployed to the US to assist with the management of the fire. They will be· focusing on the northern flank of the fire.
Rock Creek Fire:  The fire is approximately 4,534ha and is 50% contained.·  Ministry of Agriculture is working with farmers to restore internet services so supplies can be ordered· for livestock .  Smokey conditions may return to the Rock Creek area. Much of the smoke is originating from fires· in the United States.  Operations by FortisBC and contracted crews in the Highway 33 corridor are ahead of schedule.· All damaged poles along the main corridor have been replaced, and most dangerous tree Contact: Alan Stanley – Information Officer Regional District of Kootenay Boundary Phone: 250-368-1648 843 Rossland Avenue Trail BC www.rdkb.com removal is complete.
Replacement of the remaining infrastructure and reconnecting electrical service is proceeding. Services in the Beaverdell area will be gradually reconnected to the electrical distribution system and the backup generator taken off line over the next few days. Fortis will be working on side roads throughout the weekend.  The Resiliency centre remains open in Midway at:· 692 7th Ave. Midway BC 250.449.2310
Paulson Fire:  The Paulson fire is currently 260ha and the·  Crews are constructing line down the northwest flank and heavy equipment is establishing a line· on southwest flank. Burn off operations are planned on west edge if conditions permit.  This fire is highly visible from HWY 3. The Highway was closed briefly last night, however, it is now· open to single lane alternating traffic with the assistance of a pilot car.
Big Sheep Fire:  The Big Sheep fire is approximately 190ha.·  There will be an area road closure later in the day, with access for residence only. Please monitor· www.Drivebc.ca for updates. The closure is expected to take place at the bottom of Big Sheep Creek Road.  This fire is currently not threatening any structures or communities. However, smoke is visible to· residents in the Sheep Creek area and the community of Rossland.
Links for more information about fires in general  EmergencyInfoBC Online source for emergency alerts about natural disasters and provider of· public education and preparedness information.  DriveBC Road conditions and closures·
BC Air Quality The Air Quality Health Index is a health protection tool that is designed to help you· make decisions to protect your health by limiting short-term exposure to air pollution and adjusting your activity levels during increased levels of air pollution.  Interior Health During a forest fire, be aware of health risks associated with exposure to smoke, food· safety in power outages, and water quality.
Please remember to drive safely. Be aware of service and flagging crews, and fire crews that are working on our roadsides.
Travel Alerts: There are Travel Alerts for USA SR 20 and Highway 395 www.wsdot.com Highway 33 is now open. Travel from Rock Creek to Kelowna is now possible along this highway. From Rock Creek to Beaverdell there is a 60km/h speed limit in effect. Please watch for work crews and livestock.
Drivers be advised that Rock Creek to Westbridge is still an active fire area and crews are patrolling for fire activity. The BC Fire Service is aware of smoke and hot spots. Please do not report these incidences to keep phone lines open for emergencies.