Quilpituk Creek wildfire downgraded to under control after weeks of firefighting

The Quilpituk Creek wildfire west of Westside Road has been downgraded to under control, a significant step forward after more than two weeks of firefighting.

The blaze, discovered Aug. 1, covers about 1,276 hectares and is believed to have been human-caused. BC Wildfire Service says it is no longer expected to grow beyond its current boundaries.

Crews are now focused on mop-up and strengthening the perimeter, including working into the fire area to find and extinguish remaining hot spots.

About 43 firefighters remain assigned to Quilpituk Creek, with helicopters and heavy equipment supporting operations alongside crews working on the nearby Bradley Creek fire.

Seven evacuation alerts remain in place through the Regional District of Central Okanagan, while crews continue checking for hazardous trees and securing the fire’s edges.

BC Wildfire Service says equipment will remain on standby in case conditions require a quick response.