Two Elkford-based public schools closed on Wednesday and will remain closed until further notice due to wildfire activity.

Photo Credit: Google MapsRocky Mountain Elementary School.

On Tuesday, September, 12th, the Regional District of East Kootenay, the District of Elkford and the District of Sparwood issued an Evacuation Alert for residents in the north area between Sparwood and Bingay Creek.

This Evacuation Alert led to the closure of Rocky Mountain Elementary School and Elkford Secondary School.

Photo Credit: Google MapsElkford Secondary School.

"In the case of an Evacuation Alert, we must close schools that are in areas under an Evacuation Alert as an Evacuation Order could come at any time at that point," stated Jason Tichauer, Safe Schools Coordinator for SD5. "The safety of our students and staff will always be our first priority."

The two schools will be closed until further notice and the SD5 will be working closely with the Regional Districts on providing prompt updates.

The Southeast Fire Centre has several wildfires that the BC Wildfire Service is attacking. Visit BC Wildfire Service for more information on wildfires in the Southeast Fire Centre.

Photo Credit: BC Wildfire Service

See below for more information on the fires of note in the Regional District of East Kootenay.