Hot spots from Kelowna’s Knox Mountain wildfire will continue to smoulder and concerns about hazards such as sinkholes created by burning trees roots will linger.
But, as of Tuesday morning, all evacuation alerts and the state of emergency have been rescinded.
The Regional District of Central Okanagan announced the changes on Tuesday, adding that the low-intensity fire is under control at 6.5 hectares and that the Kelowna Fire Department will remain on scene until the hazards dissipate.
“While the fire is now under control, we would like to remind our residents that this is still an active fire and in areas the fire is no longer burning, there are still potential hazards,” said Kelowna Fire Department deputy fire chief Sandra Follack.
“We appreciate the public’s patience and for helping with firefighting efforts by remaining away from the areas of Knox Mountain Park that were part of the active fire as crews continue fire suppression efforts.”
Most of Knox Mountain Park remains closed and city staff will be in the park on Tuesday to identify mitigation hazards and assess damage to infrastructure.
The closure includes Knox Mountain Drive, the dog park and the path to Paul’s Tomb.
“Field assessments with Kelowna Fire Department and parks staff were done Tuesday morning, and it was determined that the area is not yet safe to fully open the park to the public,” the city said on Tuesday afternoon.
“While the fire is officially classified as under control, hazards remain in the areas that no longer have an active fire, such as sink holes caused by burning tree roots.”
“There are hotspots, and wildfire risk in the park is still high,” added urban forestry supervisor Tara Bergeson.
“It’s really important that people abide by the closure notice. Unfortunately, the public is still entering the park and there have been close calls between firefighters and individuals ignoring the closure.”
The city said failure to comply with the closure can result in fines up to $500.
Comments