Wildfire contained near Osoyoos, B.C., though evacuation alert remains

The Conifryd Creek wildfire was discovered Monday and burned approximately 10.1 hectares before it was brought under control. (B.C. Wildfire Service)

A small wildfire burning near Osoyoos, B.C., was contained by firefighters on Tuesday morning, though an evacuation alert remains in place for properties in the area.

The Conifryd Creek wildfire was discovered Monday and burned approximately 10.1 hectares before it was brought under control, according to the B.C. Wildfire Service.

The blaze temporarily shut down Highway 3 northwest of Osoyoos, though the eastbound lane has since reopened to alternating traffic, according to DriveBC.

The human-caused fire triggered an evacuation alert for properties in the Conifryd Creek area.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen issued the alert Monday evening “to prepare residents to evacuate their premises or property” in the event an evacuation order is required.

“Residents will be given as much advance notice as possible before evacuation is ordered,” the district said in its alert bulletin. “However, you may receive limited notice due to changing conditions.”

The B.C. Wildfire Service says multiple ground crews responded to the fire Monday, with support from aerial crews and firefighters from Osoyoos Fire Rescue.

Ground crews were expected to remain on scene overnight to continue fire suppression efforts.

There are currently 98 wildfires burning in B.C., including nine that are classified as out of control.