Wildfire prompts evacuation alert in East Kootenay region

An evacuation alert has been issuedto 51 properties in the Island Pond area in B.C.'s East Kootenayregion due to a wildfire burning nearby.

The wildfire broke out 12 kilometres south of Canal FlatsonSunday after a tree fell onto a power line. As of late Monday night, it was estimated to be150 hectares in size and was zero per cent contained.

A representative from the Regional District of East Kootenaysaid people in the evacuation area are asked to put together important papers, medications and other valuables and be prepared to leave at a moment's notice if the alert is upgraded to an evacuation order.

There are several otherwildfires of note in the Kootenayregion.

Anotherfire in Verdant Creek in Mount AssiniboineProvincial Park has closed the park to visitors until further notice.