Update: Evacuation alert expanded for Eagle Bluff wildfire

Update 12 p.m.

The Eagle Bluff wildfire burning north of Oliver is now at 900 hectares, and has led to more properties being put on evacuation alert including a prison.

The latest alert includes the Osoyoos Indian Band reserve and the Okanagan Correctional Centre which has 200 inmates.

While the fire has seen extensive growth the past two days, officials say it is burning away from communities and the prison.

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Update: 9 a.m.

The latest estimate on the Eagle Bluff wildfire in the South Okanagan is 900 hectares.

The Wildfire service says the increase is largely due to better mapping, but the fire did see some growth overnight due to the topography of the area.

The fire is said to be burning upslope, away from homes.

UPDATE: #EagleBluff #BCWildfire is ~900 ha. Increase in size is largely due to better mapping yesterday evening, but the fire did see some growth overnight due to the topography of the area. #Evacuation alert remains in place, for more info on alerts contact @EmergMgtRDOS (1/2)

— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) August 7, 2019

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6 a.m.

The Eagle Bluff fire between Oliver and Okanagan Falls has more than doubled in size

The B.C. Wildfire Service said the fire is now 600 hectares as of Tuesday evening, up from the earlier 280 hectares.

“Due to terrain and extreme conditions it experienced significant growth. It has become increasingly visible to surrounding communities,” said the Service on Twitter.

“The fire is anticipated to continue to grow as the fire moves upslope away from communities. Growth will bring the fire into more workable and safe terrain for resources on site.”