Highway 97 between Penticton and Peachland, passing through Summerland, has reopened for limited hours. As of Thursday morning, approximately 18,900 individuals were under evacuation orders, with an additional 10,000 on evacuation alert throughout British Columbia.
The Quilpituk Creek fire located north of Kelowna is now under control, indicating it is expected to remain contained within its current boundaries. Despite this status change, evacuation orders remain in effect as crews prepare for potential re-entry.
The premier of British Columbia has committed to evaluating the emergency response procedures following the expansion of the Bald Range wildfire, which has escalated to 191 square kilometers and is still uncontrolled near Summerland.
Highway 97 has resumed operations between Peachland and the Pyramid Picnic Area in Kickininee Provincial Park, with restricted hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT daily, allowing only continuous travel without any stops or exits permitted.
Ongoing closures persist on Highway 1 north of Hope and Highway 97 north of Cache Creek. The Ainslie Creek wildfire’s northeastern edge near Boston Bar, which spans approximately 616 square kilometers, poses a threat close to Highway 8.
In light of the current situation, some evacuees may soon be able to return home as the Quilpituk Creek wildfire has transitioned from an “out of control” status to “being held.” Efforts are being made to facilitate the safe return of residents impacted by the wildfire.
British Columbia is currently battling over 100 wildfires, predominantly concentrated in the southern part of the province. The largest ongoing wildfire, the Pear Lake wildfire near Clinton, covers an extensive area of 1,568 square kilometers.
The Bald Range wildfire near Summerland has significantly expanded to an estimated 191 square kilometers. Although properties have been destroyed by the fire, an official assessment of losses is pending as specialized search-and-rescue teams are deployed to evaluate the damage.
Penticton Indian Band Chief Greg Gabriel emphasized the importance of Indigenous involvement in addressing the root causes of wildfires to prevent future occurrences. Addressing a news conference, he highlighted the urgent need for progress in resolving these recurring issues.
Due to dry conditions and heightened fire risks in Squamish, vehicle access to a prominent route leading to Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary has been restricted as a precautionary measure. Unauthorized access to the estuary on Bailey Street has been closed to mitigate potential wildfire risks to the community.