Mara Mountain wildfire nearly quadrupled in size

The wildfire burning southeast of Sicamous saw significant growth Thursday.

The wildfire was reported at five hectares in size at around 9:09 a.m. July 18, and the B.C. Wildfire Service said by 8:27 p.m. that evening the fire had grown to 19.2 hectares.

The BCWS told Vernon Matters at 9:30 a.m. Friday that no crews were assigned to the fire as it was located in a steep, inaccessible area.

The BCWS did state aircraft was tasked with monitoring the fire Friday, adding that no helicopters or skimmers were assigned to the Mara Mountain fire as of 9:30 a.m. though that could change throughout the day.

The fire remained classified as Out of Control and was believed to be caused by lightning.