The most recent updates include the lifting of an evacuation order for the majority of Summerland by the mayor. Approximately 150 structures have suffered damage or destruction due to the Bald Range fire, as estimated by the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen. As of Monday, about 10,500 individuals in British Columbia were under evacuation orders, with an additional 17,000 on evacuation alert, necessitating readiness to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
The province is currently battling 125 wildfires, with 46 of them still uncontrolled, primarily ignited by lightning strikes. Officials are scheduled to provide an update on wildfires and smoke at 11 a.m. PT.
Over a week after the Bald Range wildfire ravaged the Summerland area, the majority of its 12,000 residents have been permitted to return home. Mayor Doug Holmes announced the downgrading of evacuation orders for 3,380 properties, encompassing most of Summerland.
However, 530 properties in Garnet Valley, Prairie Valley, and Meadow Valley are still under evacuation orders due to ongoing geotechnical work and power outages in Garnet Valley. The entire community remains under a boil water advisory.
The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is actively reaching out to owners of structures affected by the fire, with preliminary estimates suggesting around 150 structures have been impacted. The number may rise as more information becomes available.
Firefighters are concentrating efforts on the western flank of the Bald Range wildfire, which remains about 18 kilometers away from the Osprey Lake area. The fire covers more than 210 square kilometers and is being held back by control lines on its southern and eastern flanks.
Residents of Summerland expressed gratitude upon returning home, with Coun. Erin Trainer mentioning that some properties were downgraded from evacuation orders to alerts. However, she emphasized the importance of ensuring everyone’s safety before claiming full recovery.
Currently, four major wildfires, including Bald Range, Pear Lake, Ainslie Creek, and Brunswick Creek fires, are burning out of control. Hotter temperatures and dry conditions are expected in B.C., except for the far northwest region, with light winds prevailing in the southern half of the province.
The Ministry of Environment’s Air Quality Health Index indicates “high” health risks due to smoke in the south Okanagan and “moderate” risks in several other regions as of Tuesday morning.