A wildfire close to Peachland, B.C., forced 325 homes to evacuate Thursday. (B.C. Wildfire Service)
A wildfire near Peachland, B.C., grew quickly Thursday evening, causing authorities to order 325 homes to evacuate. In addition, more than 1,100 properties are on alert, meaning residents should be ready to leave immediately if needed.
The Central Okanagan Regional District issued the evacuation order at 6 p.m. and followed with an evacuation alert around 7:45 p.m. The fire started earlier that afternoon near Munro Lake, about six kilometres southwest of Peachland, a town of roughly 5,000 people located nearly 250 kilometres northeast of Vancouver.
Fire Details and Impact
The B.C. Wildfire Service reports the blaze has already spread to 0.7 square kilometres (74.3 hectares). The fire threatens local roads including Munro Lake Forest Service Road and Peachland Main Road, adding to safety concerns in the area.
Shae Stearns, a fire information officer with BC Wildfire Service, said, “We do have some gustier winds in that area right now, which are contributing to that heightened fire activity.” She described the fire as a Rank 3, meaning it is burning moderately and actively on the surface.
Response Efforts Underway
More than 40 firefighters are working to control the blaze, supported by air tankers and four helicopters. The Peachland Fire Department is also assisting in the effort.
Kirsten Jones, an information officer with the regional district’s emergency operations centre, urged residents affected by the fire to sign up for the district’s email notifications for the latest updates and support options. She also encouraged people to look out for their neighbours and share only confirmed information.
Residents who have been evacuated can seek help at the muster centre located at the Peachland Community Centre.
Possible Cause and Safety Advice
Authorities suspect the fire started due to human activity, a term used for wildfires not caused by lightning strikes.
Officials remind residents to stay alert and prepared, as the situation could change quickly. Evacuation orders and alerts help keep people safe during emergencies like this.
