UPDATE, Saturday 2:25 p.m.: The B.C. Wildfire Service says the Testalinden wildfire is estimated to be 4,172 hectares. People in 27 properties remain on Evacuation Order and people in 258 properties remain on Evacuation Alert. Saturday’s rainfall was a good sign for fire crews, who continue to work around the clock from the air and on the ground to contain the blaze.
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UPDATE, Friday 9:45 p.m.: The Testalinden Creek wildfire has once again grown, but fire crews won’t know until tomorrow how large it has become.
The blaze near Oliver, now over 3,717 hectares, has caused a new Evacuation Order for 27 properties today.
The northwest flank of the fire has progressed to the head of Tinhorn Creek, and gusting winds up to 40 kilometres an hour are causing concern for fire crews.
In total, 20 people will continue the fire overnight, and 150 people will be on scene tomorrow.
258 properties are still on Evacuation Alert. The fire is 60 per cent contained.
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An increase in the aggressiveness of the Testalinden Creek wildfire near Oliver has resulted in evacuation orders being issued Friday afternoon.
Residents of 27 homes are being told to leave their properties.
The fire is moving northwards, putting the evacuation area at risk.
The order affects properties on Fairview, Willowbrook and Old Golf Course Roads.
The Sawmill Lake forestry recreation site is also being evacuated as are nearby Ripley and Madden lakes.
Displaced residents are asked to register at the Oliver Community Recreation Centre at 6359 Park Drive.
People needing transportation assistance can call 250-492-0237
The regional district is advising people to:
• Close all windows and doors
• Shut off all gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers
• Close gates (latch) but do not lock
• Gather your family: take a neighbour or someone who needs help
• Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and keys) only if they are
immediately available. Take pets in pet kennels or on leash.
• Do not use more vehicles then you have to.
• Do not use the telephone unless you need emergency service.
It’s uncertain how many people are affected.
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