TUMBLER RIDGE -- Update: Since first being reported, the fire has grown to 40 hectares in size. Two bucketing helicopters and five pieces of heavy equipment have also been assigned to fight the blaze. 

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A wildfire is currently burning out of control approximately 82 kilometres south of Dawson Creek.

The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) reported that the Thunder Creek wildfire was discovered on September 5th near Bearhole Lake Provincial Park, west of Tumbler Ridge.

As of today, the fire has grown to 13 hectares in size, according to the BCWS.

A full response team, including firefighting personnel, is actively working to contain the blaze.

There is currently no word if water quality is being impacted by the fire as Bearhole Lake feeds into the Kiskatinaw River, the primary water source for Dawson Creek and Pouce Coupe. 

Residents in Dawson Creek say they are experiencing thick smoke and ash, although Environment Canada has not issued an air quality advisory.

Forecasted southwest wind gusts of up to 30 km/h may exacerbate the fire, which is believed to have been sparked by a lightning strike.

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This is an ongoing situation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.