Weather cools activity on McDougall Creek fire

Emergency officials in the Central Okanagan said it was a calm night on the McDougall Creek fire lines Tuesday (Aug. 29) due to the cool, wet weather.

Increased winds on Tuesday afternoon led to additional evacuation alerts in West Kelowna, including all of the Glenrosa and Westbank neighbourhoods.

“Extra crews spent the night stationed in affected neighbourhoods, monitoring the McDougall Creek Wildfire. The wildfire did not affect any additional homes last night,” a news release from Central Okanagan Emergency Operations said.

The fire, which was first discovered on Aug. 15, is still classified as out of control.

“Firefighting efforts are expected to continue over the coming weeks and the West Kelowna Fire Department and RDCO Fire Services are in regular contact with the BC Wildfire Service to ensure appropriate resources are allocated to the wildfire at all times,” the release added.

As the firefighting continues, residents should expect to see smoke and flames from the fire, as well the regular movement of fire equipment. Fire activity is especially visible at dusk and can be seen from across the lake.

As of 7 a.m., it is estimated that 487 properties are under evacuation order, while 21,077 properties are under evacuation alert. The Emergency Operations Centre expects to adjust orders and alerts as conditions change and hazards are assessed and mitigated.

Property visits in evacuation order areas are being organized for property owners whose homes are uninhabitable. Information about resident tours will be released shortly.