Emergency teams in British Columbia are responding to a fast-moving wildfire that broke out between Peachland and West Kelowna. The fire, now known as the Drought Hill wildfire, has already triggered tactical evacuations for about 400 properties and led to road closures in the area.
The Central Okanagan Regional District issued evacuation orders for residents living east of Trepanier Bench Road, south of Highway 97C, and north of Highway 97. Officials warn that people in these areas should be prepared to leave for an extended time.
Authorities are urging residents to take important items like medications and personal documents, and to make plans for pets. Emergency crews are doing everything possible to manage the situation and protect nearby homes and roads.
The wildfire, which was discovered on Wednesday, has quickly spread to about five hectares. According to the BC Wildfire Service, the fire is burning out of control and growing fast due to dry conditions.
As a safety measure, stretches of both Highway 97 and the Okanagan Connector (Highway 97C) are closed. Traffic is now being diverted at Highway 5A near Aspen Grove, just east of Merritt. A photo from the scene shows thick smoke rising next to the highway, making travel unsafe.
The Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Centre is now active. People who have been forced to leave their homes are being told to go to the Peachland Community Centre at 4450 6th Street. If access to that location is blocked, they can also go to Royal LePage Place at 2760 Cameron Avenue in West Kelowna.
Fire crews from nearby towns are working alongside the BC Wildfire Service to fight the fire. They are using water bombers and helicopters to stop the flames from spreading. Officials say updates will be shared regularly as the situation changes.
The local police are helping with evacuations and keeping people away from the danger zones. Authorities are also warning the public to stay off the water at Okanagan Lake. The lake is being used by helicopters and airtankers to refill with water, and boats in the area could slow down firefighting efforts.
Police issued a message to boaters asking them to stay out of the way. Clear skies over the lake are critical for air crews to safely collect water and return to the fire zone.
As of now, there are 59 active wildfires burning across British Columbia. Eight of them began in the past 24 hours, raising concerns about worsening fire conditions in the province. Officials continue to monitor the situation and stress that public safety remains the top priority.
