The RCMP along with Central Okanagan Search and Rescue went door to door overnight, alerting residents of an evacuation order due to a threatening wildfire off the Okanagan Connector.
The Brenda Creek wildfire is burning south of Highway 97C, about 40 kilometres from West Kelowna.
The fire is estimated at 400 hectares and burning out of control, and residents were evacuated from 41 properties.
The evacuation order was issued by the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS) around 4:30 a.m.
According to the RDOS, it affects homes in Electoral Area H due to immediate danger to life and safety.
The RDOS said the following roads are affected by the evacuation order:
- Peachland Forest Service Road
- Lyric Lane
- Blue Gate Lane
- Twilight Lane
- Campbell Lane
- Dam Lane
- Whiskey Jack Lane
- Lupine Lane
- Headwaters Lane
A list of specific addresses is available on the RDOS website.
All evacuees are encouraged to register for emergency support services (ESS). You can do so on the ESS website or by calling 1-844-537-7377.
If you require services, you can also visit the ESS Reception Centre at 199 Ellis St. in Penticton.
The RDOS said pet or livestock owners that need animals to be cared for and billeted can contact Animal Lifeline Emergency Response Team (ALERT) for support at 250-809-7152.
The RDOS has asked evacuees to consider making arrangements with family or friends due to a shortage of hotel accommodations.
One site that was evacuated was Headwaters Family Camp, located at Headwater Lakes.
Asked about the fire, the camp owners told Global News they have concerns, stating the fire could change directions and potentially raze the camp.
Meanwhile, Central Okanagan Search and Rescue says they’re asking people to respect the evacuation order, “because this area is an active fire zone. We really don’t want to have to come back in and get you.”
Evacuation alert expanded
On Thursday afternoon, just after 3 p.m., Central Okanagan Emergency Operations announced that its evacuation alert has been considerably expanded.
A map showing the new boundary of the Evacuation Alert in the Central Okanagan is available on this website.
Emergency Operations says the alert continues to extend into portions of the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS) and Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD).
“Residents, businesses and those camping in recreation sites within the alert boundary should be prepared and ready to leave on short notice if fire conditions require an evacuation order,” said Emergency Operations.
“The Emergency program reminds all Central Okanagan residents that they should know the risks of potential emergencies, make a plan and prepare grab-and-go kits in the event they are required to leave their homes for at least 72 hours.”
Interior Health also has information regarding power outages and what people should do regarding refrigerated and frozen food.