Wildfire West of Needles More Than Doubles in Size
- Jul 28
- 2 min read
Inonoaklin Creek wildfire expands to 597 hectares, remains out of control
July 28 2026, NEEDLES, B.C. - The lightning-caused Inonoaklin Creek wildfire northwest of Needles has grown to 597 hectares and remains out of control, according to a BC Wildfire Service update issued July 28, 2026.
Fire N51198 was discovered July 25 and is burning on a steep slope in heavy timber approximately 17 kilometres northwest of Needles on the north side of Highway 6.
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Steep terrain, hot and dry weather, and the amount of available fuel continue to challenge response efforts.
Daily fire activity and smoke impacts are expected to become more noticeable in surrounding areas as temperatures peak, relative humidity drops, and winds increase.
An area restriction is now in effect in the Inonoaklin Creek area to protect public and responder safety.
The Regional District of Central Kootenay has also issued an evacuation alert for one property and homes in the vicinity of Lightning Peak Road and Highway 6.
The fire is visible to travellers along Highway 6 but is not currently impacting the road. Motorists are asked to stay focused on driving and keep clear of personnel working in the area.
Suppression work continues with heavy equipment constructing machine guards for containment and crew access. Ground crews are supporting guard construction, building helipads, and assessing and falling danger trees. Helicopters are working with crews to cool the fire and limit spread.
Three helicopters are assigned today, including two heavy-lift machines. An initial attack crew and multiple pieces of heavy equipment, including two dozers, two skidders, two excavators, two bunchers and two low beds, are also responding.
Wildfire West of Needles More Than Doubles in Size
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