More evacuation orders issued as wildfire on west side grows

An evacuation order has been issued for properties in the Shelter Cove, Secret Point and Cinnabar Creek areas as the Quilpituk Creek wildfire continues to threaten parts of the Central Okanagan.

The order, issued Thursday morning by Central Okanagan Emergency Management, affects 23 properties along Westside Road. Residents in the area are being told to leave immediately and follow instructions from emergency personnel and traffic control crews.

The affected properties were previously under an evacuation alert, with advance notice provided to residents Wednesday night.

The evacuation route is south on Westside Road.

Central Okanagan Emergency Management says the order was issued at the recommendation of the BC Wildfire Service due to forecasted weather conditions expected to increase fire behaviour and contribute to further growth of the wildfire.

While no structures are currently under immediate threat, officials say the order is intended to allow residents to leave safely ahead of worsening conditions.

Residents leaving the area are being asked to take critical items, including medications, identification, keys and important documents if they are readily available. Officials are also reminding people to bring pets with them and follow directions from emergency crews.

The Quilpituk Creek wildfire near La Casa was previously mapped at more than 700 hectares. Evacuation alerts and orders linked to the wildfire remain in place as crews continue monitoring conditions.

Residents can check whether their property is affected by the evacuation order through the Central Okanagan Emergency Operations website.