Munson Mountain fire knocked down quickly thanks to fast work from helicopter water bomber, ground crews

UPDATE: 1:45 p.m.

Residents are advised that the fire at the base of Munson Mountain below the Kettle Valley Rail trail is now considered contained and is in the mop-up stage.

The city asks that residents please continue to avoid the area while this work continues, and says thank you to the Penticton Fire Department and BC Wildfire Service for their quick response.

UPDATE 1:12 p.m.

The City of Penticton Fire Department is responding to a brush fire at the base of Munson Mountain below the Kettle Valley Rail trail.

A BC Wildfire helicopter is assisting with water bucketing.

People are being asked to avoid the area while crews respond.

ORIGINAL 12:46 p.m.

Fire crews have been called to grassfire in the South Okanagan.

Smoke is visible in the Lower Bench Road area below Munson Mountain.

Multiple Penticton fire crews and personnel are responding.

Castanet's Chelsea Powrie is heading to the scene and will have more information as soon as it becomes available.