Lightning strikes have sparked a new wildfire southeast of Kelowna, in B.C.'s Interior.
The forest fire, now about seven hectares, is burning in Bellevue Creek, about 12 kilometres away from the city limits.
Strong winds Sunday night fanned the flames, causing it to grow quickly. Air tankers dropped fire retardant around the perimeter late Sunday.
Access to the fire is proving to be problematic for tactical teams. There are no roads into the area, and ground crews have been working hard to build a workable road for firefighters to enter the area.
Around 20 firefighters are battling the blaze.
The forest fire is close to the historic rail trestles of Myra Canyon, but officials say they are not threatening them.
The trestles were recently rebuilt after the massive wildfires of Kelowna six years ago. Those fires destroyed more than 200 area homes, and damaged many more.
Province on alert
Meanwhile, a state of emergency has been declared near Lillooet as crews struggle to contain a 40 square kilometre forest fire.
The Tyaughton Lake fire has been growing steadily since it was accidentally started by a camper 10 days ago.
Evacuation orders are in effect for Liza, Carol Lakes, Marshall, as well as Mud Creek, Gun Creek Road and Tyaughton Lake.
With files from The Canadian Press
