British Columbia's wildfire season intensified over the weekend as the province recorded almost 30 new fires, swelling an already large roster of active incidents to nearly 100 within 24 hours.
Evacuations near Kelowna as Bradley Creek grows
Overnight, the Central Okanagan Emergency Management issued three evacuation orders and four alerts tied to the Bradley Creek wildfire, located north of Kelowna on the west side of Lake Okanagan. The B.C. Wildfire Service describes the fire as roughly 10 square kilometres in size and currently "out of control." Officials say the blaze is likely the result of human activity.
While the Bradley Creek fire has prompted the latest orders in the valley, wildfire officials across the province are urging British Columbians to be ready to leave on short notice.
Preparedness advice from wildfire authorities
The B.C. Wildfire Service recommends residents take a number of practical steps to reduce risk and speed an evacuation if needed:
- Register for official community notifications;
- Stay informed through verified sources and emergency channels;
- Discuss and finalise evacuation plans with household members;
- Identify ahead of time where you would go if you must leave.
Provincial officials emphasised that even communities not yet under orders should treat the situation seriously and prepare accordingly.
Weather complicating firefighting efforts
Thunderstorms and gusty winds moving through the region this weekend are playing a dual role: they are increasing the fire danger across dry landscapes and at the same time hampering suppression efforts. The B.C. Wildfire Service said these conditions have contributed to the weekend's intensifying hazards.
Officials have been strategically shifting ground crews and aerial resources to respond rapidly to newly ignited fires, but unpredictable winds and active fire behaviour are stretching resources in several regions.
Scope of the current wildfire picture
As of the latest provincial tally, nearly 100 wildfires were active across B.C., with close to half reported to be out of control. The recent spike of roughly 30 new starts in a single 24-hour period underscores how quickly the situation can change.
| Metric | Current figure |
|---|---|
| New wildfires in 24 hours | ~30 |
| Total active wildfires | ~100 |
| Bradley Creek fire size | 10 km² |
| Evacuation orders/alerts (Central Okanagan) | 3 orders / 4 alerts |
These figures are evolving as crews reassess and as new fires are reported.
Community impact and local response
The Central Okanagan's overnight orders affected several neighbourhoods north of Kelowna as authorities moved to protect residents in the path of the Bradley Creek blaze. Evacuation alerts give residents advance warning to prepare; orders require immediate departure.
Local emergency management teams and provincial wildfire personnel have been coordinating to move people and resources where needed. Volunteer organisations and municipal staff typically play roles in sheltering and logistical support, though officials caution that rapidly changing conditions can complicate those efforts.
What residents should do now
Officials advise families to pack an emergency kit, secure important documents, arrange for pets and livestock, and make contingency plans for relatives or friends who may not drive or who may require special assistance. Registering for local alerts and monitoring official social channels will provide the latest on evacuation zones and shelter openings.
The Canadian Press contributed to this report.
Reporting from the Okanagan Valley.
