Evacuation orders remain for wildfire near La Casa, grows to 200 hectares

Updated Sunday 9:30 p.m.

Central Okanagan Emergency Management said Sunday that the evacuation order for the 2218 properties and evacuation alerts for three properties Quilpituk Creek Wildfire area would remain in place overnight.

The fire, now measured at 200-hectares Sunday evening, was still rated as out of control as of Sunday evening. It was at 80-hectares early in the day.

BC Wildfire Service said Crews are working on the south and east flanks and are being supported by helicopters. Heavy equipment will be supporting tomorrow alongside the north flank of the fire.

BCWS personnel will continue to work the fire throughout the night, supported by NVIS to provide aerial monitoring and conduct tanking operations.

Fire crews will continue monitoring and addressing remaining hot spots. Residents may notice lingering smoke and ongoing movement of firefighting equipment in the area. If you observe fire activity outside of designated or expected areas, report wildfires by calling *5555, or dial 911 for fires within city limits.

The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) said crews completed a sprinkler line Sunday set up along the powerline on the west flank. They continued to establish hoselay for water delivery to the fire’s edge and conducted danger tree assessments and falling as they work their way around the fire perimeter. Crews were working on the south and east flanks and are being supported by helicopters. Heavy equipment will be supporting efforts on Monday alongside the north flank of the fire.

The public was advised to refer to the Central Okanagan Emergency Management’s website for the latest news releases and check the coemergency.ca/map to search by street address to determine if you are under an evacuation order or alert.

Overnight supports are being offered as follows:

• Westbank First Nation’s Sensisyusten House of Learning (1920 Quail Lane) is welcoming evacuees and OKIB members overnight impacted by the Quilpituk Creek Wildfire.
• Royal LePage Place Arena (2760 Cameron Road) is welcoming all evacuees impacted by the Quilpituk Creek Wildfire overnight for group lodging.
• RVs and trailers can park at Mount Boucherie Secondary School (2751 Cameron Road) overnight and access services at Royal LePage Place. 
• Overnight support sites are equipped with snacks, water, limited sleeping cots, washroom facilities and first aid. Security patrolled parking is available on site. 
• Emergency Support Services (ESS) services will be open tonight at the Westbank Lions Hall (2466 Main St) until 9 p.m. for those who require assistance registering or additional services such as food, clothing or other incidentals.