Update:
Williams Lake Fire Chief Erick Peterson said the slash pile that was ignited Friday morning at Westridge should be out by the afternoon.
No other fires will be lit, due to the strong winds.
Peterson said the burning was permitted as part of an ongoing effort to reduce fuel load within the city limits.
Part of the permitting issued by the Cariboo Fire Centre for the burns requires that the weather allows for good venting, which was why the fire was lit Friday.
He acknowledged, however, that the winds to were too strong to carry on with any other burns.
The fire was being monitored by crews and under control, he said.
Original story:
A highly visible slash pile burn is currently being conducted just below the Westridge subdivision Friday morning.
The burn is raising some alarms bells from Tribune readers in the downtown due to its high visibility.
The Williams Lake Tribune has contacted the Williams Lake Fire Department who said: “The fire is part of a controlled burn being conducted by a private landowner.”
Read More: City takes steps to reduce fuel load in Williams Lake subdivisions
The department has been working with private landowners within the city to decrease the fuel load found inside the city limits. to reduce the risks of wildfire.
A department spokesperson said, “The situation is being monitored.”
High winds in the area have been whipping the flames up quite high and dramatically, raising concerns.
Read More: Williams Lake city council endorses wildfire protection plan
news@wltribune.com
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