(UPDATE: Sept. 3 @ 12:30 pm) – All evacuation alerts have now been lifted for the Mt Law wildfire.
Central Okanagan Emergency Operations said suppression of the fire will continue as crews work towards the centre of the blaze's perimeter.
"Residents are reminded to be cautious of potential hazards in the area due to wildfire and fire suppression activity," CORD added.
"Watch for wildlife, hazard trees and debris on the roads.
"Although the alert has been lifted, the area is still an active fire zone and residents are asked to be vigilant. Contact 9-1-1 if you see spot fires threatening homes or other areas showing rapid growth."
(UPDATE: Sept. 3 @ 10:13 am) – The Mt Law wildfire is now being held.
Firefighters said the blaze has been contained at 976 hectares.
Weather today is "expected to remain warm," BC Wildfire Service said, but fire behaviour is not forecast to "increase significantly."
"Smoke may continue to be visible from active fire within the existing perimeter as the temperatures increase," BCWS explained.
"These areas of activity within the perimeter are a normal occurrence as fuels continue to be consumed at the interior of the fire."
BCWS said it has 67 personnel, four pieces of heavy equipment and five helicopters available to fight the fire.
Evacuation alerts put in place by the Regional District of Central Okanagan, meanwhile, remain in place.
(UPDATE: Sept. 2 @ 11:44 am) – The Mt Law wildfire is not expected to pose a challenge to firefighters today despite a change in the weather.
BC Wildfire Service said the slightly higher temperatures and light winds shouldn't lead to the fire breaking through guards.
The blaze remains out of control at 976 hectares.
"Smoke may be visible from active fire within the existing perimeter as the temperatures increase," BCWS explained
"These areas of activity within the perimeter are a normal occurrence as fuels continue to be consumed at the interior of the fire."
Crews have been launching direct attacks against the fire amid cooler weather.
BCWS said it has 67 firefighters, four pieces of heavy equipment and access to six helicopters at the fire.
(UPDATE: Sept. 1 @ 5 pm) – BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) continues to estimate the Mount Law wildfire at 976 hectares.
The agency explains that one to two millimetres fell on the fire yesterday (Aug. 31) and conditions remained cool and cloudy with light winds today.
BCWS explains that the downturn in weather has helped crews make additional progress on the containment of this wildfire.
There are 72 personnel, four pieces of heavy equipment and an incident management team assigned to this fire.
Crews are supported by the nine helicopters available through the Okanagan Complex.
Crews are engaging in direct attacks on the fire’s edge with suppression activities on a few remaining hotspots.
They will begin to work their way inwards from the fire’s edge to accomplish full containment.
BCWS reminds residents to follow the guidelines of the area restriction that is in place.
There are only evacuation alerts in place for properties in the vicinity of this property.
Visit cordemergency.ca for more information.
(UPDATE: Aug. 31 @ 10:30 am) – Good progress continues to be made at the Mt Law wildfire, BC Wildfire Service said this morning.
The cooler weather – alongside a chance of showers – is expected to help crews contain the blaze.
"Mop up will continue inwards from the fire perimeter on the north and west side of the fire," BCWS said.
"On the east side of the fire crews continued to work directly on the fires edge with suppression activities, this is referred to as 'direct attack'."
BCWS said there are 70 personnel, five pieces of heavy equipment and eight helicopters available to work on the fire.
(UPDATE: Aug. 30 @ 1:00 pm) – The Regional District of Central Okanagan has rescinded the last evacuation order for one property on Highway 97.
The agency explains that there are no remaining orders, however, some evacuation alerts remain in place.
Visit cordemergnecy.ca to view a map of current evacuation alerts.
Residents are reminded that when they return home they may encounter different kinds of hazards and to be cautious.
As a result of the ongoing fire situation, crews are still in the area working.
“While smoke continues to be visible, this is not a threat for residents returning to their community,” confirms Jason Brolund, fire chief of West Kelowna Fire Rescue.
“Smoke plumes are from the perimeter of the fire and those lines are not being challenged.”
BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) explains that the small planned ignition that occurred near Drought Creek was successfully reinforcing the nearby fire guard.
(UPDATE: Aug. 30 @ 10:44 am): Mop-up work continues at the Mt Law wildfire.
BC Wildfire Service said crews are working inwards form the fire's perimeter on the north and west.
"On the east side of the fire crews continued to work directly on the fires edge with suppression activities, this is referred to as 'direct attack,'" the agency explained.
BCWS also explained that the small spot fire which sparked up last night across Hwy 97C has was contained by local firefighters.
In its latest update, the agency explained it has 62 crew members, seven pieces of heavy equipment and access to seven helicopters as part of the Okanagan Complex fire management team.
The fire remains out of control at 976 hectares.
(UPDATE: Aug. 30 @ 8:10 am) – Crews were battling a small spot fire to the south of Hwy 97C last night, according to BC Wildfire Service.
It was part of the Mt Law wildfire.
BCWS said last night that West Kelowna Fire Rescue attended the fire but no update on the situation has been provided this morning.
Earlier on Sunday, the agency said it had made "good progress" against the Mt Law blaze over the last two days.
The fire remains out of control at 976 hectares.
(UPDATE: Aug. 29 @ 10:45 am) – The Mount Law wildfire remains at 976 hectares.
Today there are 82 personnel, four helicopters, four pieces of heavy equipment and an incident management team on site.
According to the Central Okanagan Emergency Operations favourable weather and the additional fire crews from Mexico have resulted in no significant growth on the fire.
BC Wildfire Service notes that if conditions remain favourable today, crews may engage in a small-scale planned ignition on the south side of the fire near Drought Creek.
This will remove a small pocket of unburned fuel between the main body of the fire and a pre-established fire guard.
“Visible smoke plumes continue in the area and while we know seeing smoke of any kind can be quite concerning for residents, these plumes are coming from within the perimeter of the fire,” said Jason Brolund, fire chief of West Kelowna Fire Rescue.
Crews assigned to the southwestern flank will be establishing a black line and patrolling along Highway 97C.
A black line is a burned area that acts as a fire guard and gives crews a safe area to work.
On the northern and eastern flanks crews are mopping up hotspots along the fire’s edge.
One more property (4713 MacKinnon Rd.) was downgraded to evacuation alert due to the ongoing firefighting efforts.
At this time there have been no other changes to current evacuation notices.
To view the areas under evacuation order or evacuation alert, view the map here.
(UPDATE: Aug. 28 @ 10:45 am) – The Mount Law wildfire has seen more growth and is now estimated at 976 hectares.
There are 119 fire fighters, nine helicopters, four pieces of heavy equipment and an incident management team on site.
Today, skimmer aircraft are planning a practice water drop on the wildfire and may use Okanagan Lake as a water resource.
BC Wildfire Service asks that “all boaters on Okanagan Lake clear the area during this operation so skimmers may safely pick up water on the lake surface.”
The operation is for training purposes only and the fire has not challenged the guards.
Crews from Mexico arrived yesterday and will be supporting the suppression efforts.
Mop up operations continue on the spot fire near Drought Creek and other hotspots identified in the infrared scan.
Crews are focusing their suppression efforts to the eastern flank of the fire.
At this time, there are no changes to the evacuation orders or alerts issued by the Regional District of Central Okanagan.
Visit cordemergency.ca for more information and to view a map for the evacuation alert area.
(UPDATE: Aug. 27 @ 10:04 am): Firefighters continue to make good progress against the Mt Law wildfire.
It remains out of control at 930 hectares, with Central Okanagan Emergency Operations (CORD) confirming yesterday's larger estimate was due to more accurate mapping.
“Weather has been favourable and is cooperating with the efforts of BC Wildfire,” said West Kelowna Fire Rescue Chief Jason Brolund.
“Please continue with your patience as everyone works hard to make your community safe.”
The following properties remain on evacuation order:
A map showing properties still on alert is available at cordemergency.ca.
BC Wildfire Service said its crews had got spot fires near Hwy 97C and Drought Creek under control.
"Crews are also working directly on the fire perimeter along the east side of the fire and mopping up on the south side of the fire (near Hwy 97C), the west side and the north side of the fire," the agency added.
One westbound lane on the Connector remains closed near West Kelowna due to the fire.
Today, a BCWS Incident Management Team will take operational control of the Okanagan Complex from the outgoing Australian Incident Management Team, BCWS said.
BCWS added that there are 80 firefighters, five helicopters and 11 pieces of heavy equipment working on the fire.
(UPDATE: Aug. 26 @ 9:12 am): The Mt Law wildfire has grown overnight.
BC Wildfire Service now estimates the fire to be 930 hectares, up from 800 hectares.
It remains out of control.
Central Okanagan Emergency Operations (CORD) said the heightened activity was due to a "wind event" on Wednesday night.
Crews from BCWS, West Kelowna and Peachland have been battling the fire since 2 am, CORD explained.
No additional evacuation alerts or orders have been issued.
BCWS said crews continued with planned ignitions along Hwy 97C last night.
The agency added: "Unfortunately, a small spot fire occurred in the area to the south of the highway, and crews including the local fire department have round this up this morning.
"We also had a small spot fire start on the eastern side of drought creek and crews are currently conducting direct attack on this area. Large air tankers may be used throughout the day to assist with containing the spread of this spot to the east."
BCWS reminded residents that despite the easing of the threat amid milder weather, the Mt Law blaze remains uncontained in areas.
"We continue to ask that motorists do not stop on the highway to take photos or slow down to take photos as this poses a traffic hazard," the agency added.
BCWS said it has 88 firefighters working at the blaze alongside 11 pieces of heavy equipment, five helicopters and 34 support staff.
(UPDATE: Aug. 26 @ 7:37 am): The lane has now been cleared, DriveBC said.
(UPDATE: Aug. 26 @ 6 am): The westbound lane of the Okanagan Connector near West Kelowna has been closed due to the Mt Law wildfire.
DriveBC said the closure is between Junction Hwy 97 and MacKinnon Road for 0.2 kilometres.
#BCHwy97C - WB Forest fire closure between the Junction of #BCHwy97 and MacKinnon Rd #Peachland. Detour available and in effect through #Peachland. WB lane closure. Exit ramp is closed.https://t.co/a9eITzoc7q@BCGovFireInfo #Kelowna #Westbank #WestKelowna pic.twitter.com/O2sFUdz4WN
— DriveBC (@DriveBC) August 26, 2021
The exit ramp is closed.
A detour is in effect through Peachland.
On Wednesday, BC Wildfire Service said the fire had "slowly spread" down the slope towards Hwy 97C.
Fire Information Luke Robinson said this morning firefighters will be conducting planned ignitions near the Connector today.
He said the ignitions will cover about 15 hectares and be visible from the Connector.
(UPDATE: Aug. 25 @ 9:40 am) – The Mount Law wildfire is still estimated at 800 hectares.
The area continues to receive cool temperatures, high humidity and scattered precipitation.
Crews will take advantage of these favourable conditions and engage in planned hand ignitions.
They will work to remove unburnt fuel along the southwest flank of the fire which is located along Highway 97C.
According to BC Wildfire Service the ignitions will begin after 11 am today and will be “highly visible.”
The westbound lane on the highway will remain closed to traffic to ensure crews and motorists remain safe.
There are 85 firefighters, 34 support staff, 23 pieces of heavy equipment and seven helicopters on scene today.
A detailed map of current evacuation orders and alerts is available at cordemergency.ca/map.
The area restriction is still in effect and will continue until Oct. 15 or until it is rescinded.
(UPDATE: Aug. 24 @ 4:30 pm) – The Mount Law wildfire is still estimated at 800 hectares and no significant growth has been observed in the last 48 hours.
There are 105 firefighters, 34 support staff, 13 pieces of heavy equipment and five helicopters working on the fire today.
Crews will continue with small-scale planned ignitions to remove unburned fuel between the fire and the guard.
Although the area has experienced cooler temperatures, BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) reminds residents that the fire continues to be classified as out of control and even un-contained in some areas.
Mop up operations and planned ignitions will continue over the next few days as crews work to contain the fire.
In today’s Central Okanagan Regional District (CORD) update, West Kelowna Fire Rescue fire chief Jason Brolund thanked the public for remaining vigilant and reporting spot fires and risks to structures in the area.
““The Mount Law Wildfire remains active and West Kelowna and Peachland Fire Rescue crews are working alongside BC Wildfire to continue to support fire suppression efforts,” Brolund affirmed.
The following properties remain on evacuation order:
Visit cordemergency.ca for more information or to view the evacuation order and alert map.
Both BCWS and CORD explain that a westbound lane on Highway 97C is closed for the safety of crews and motorists are asked not to stop in the area.
“Please follow directions of highway and emergency workers and drive (according) to the conditions,” explains the CORD statement.
(UPDATE: Aug. 23 @ 4:25 pm) – The Mount Law wildfire has experienced reduced fire activity on the northern flank.
As a result the Central Okanagan Regional District has downgraded evacuation orders to alert for one property on Turnball Road and two properties on Emerald Road.
The following properties downgraded from evacuation order to alert are:
The following properties remain on evacuation order:
All other evacuation orders and alerts remain in place. Visit this website for more information.
"We are grateful to return nearly all West Kelowna residents to their homes today and want to thank them for their cooperation,” said Jason Brolund, fire chief of West Kelowna Fire Rescue.
The area continues to be an active fire incident and continues to be out of control at 800 hectares – residents are reminded to be aware and give crews the space they need to work.
(UPDATE: Aug. 23 @ 8:50 am): Last night's planned ignitions above Hwy 97C were a success, BC Wildfire Service has said.
The Mt Law wildfire had slowly spread downhill towards a guard above the highway, the agency explained.
"Last night crews conducted planned hand ignitions along this guard to burn excess fuel between the guard and the fire," BCWS said.
"These ignitions were successful and further small, planned hand ignitions will occur today around all parts of the fire to burn pockets of fuel between the fire and the guards."
Firefighters are keen to stress, however, that the fire has not been contained – despite cooler weather and rain aiding in the battle.
Crews are "working for containment" during the more favourable weather, BCWS said.
The agency added: "We continue to ask that motorists do not stop on the highway to take photos or slow down to take photos as this poses a traffic hazard."
The fire is still classed as out of control at 800 hectares.
BCWS said there are 112 firefighters, 16 pieces of heavy equipment and five helicopters at the fire.
(UPDATE: Aug. 23 @ 5:30 am) – The Mt Law wildfire is "within containment lines and not threatening any communities," BC Wildfire Service said in its update on the blaze late last night.
Crews also began planned hand ignitions to burn away fuel that had accrued between the guard and the fire down Mt Drought last night.
They remained at the fire overnight, BCWS said.
"These planned ignitions are highly visible from the Peachland area and from the Highway 97C," the agency warned.
But it added: "We want to reiterate that this fire is within containment lines and not threatening any communities at this stage.
"Please don't try and get close to the fire ground to take photos and please ensure you drive to the conditions and follow directions of highway and emergency workers.
"Planned ignitions may occur during [Monday] as conditions allow."
The fire remains out of control at an estimated 800 hectares.
In its update last night the BCWS said it had 82 firefighters, 25 pieces of heavy equipment and five helicopters at the fire.
(UPDATE: Aug. 22 @ 2:30 pm) – Crews working on the Mount Law wildfire were successful in their small scale hand ignitions yesterday.
Crews worked on the northern flank near Carre Road, Prestons Road and McKeller Road.
The fire continues to be estimated at 800 hectares.
More small scale hand ignitions may occur today as crews work to remove unburnt fuel between fire guards and the fire’s perimeter.
There are 82 firefighters, 25 pieces of heavy equipment, 34 support staff and five helicopters working on the fire today.
BCWS notes that “the fire will however maintain a high visibility throughout today and [...] tonight whilst crews continue to work to contain this fire.”
The fire continues to burn out of control but crews are taking advantage of the cooler weather to control the fire’s perimeter, mop up hotspots and protect infrastructure in the area.
The Central Okanagan Regional District (CORD) reminds residents to respect the area restriction that is now in place.
Motorists are reminded not to stop on the highway and to give crews the space they need to work safely.
CORD also announced that four properties on Turnball Road have been downgraded to an evacuation alert.
West Kelowna Fire Resuce fire chief Jason Brolund explains that the area received some rain today "which has helped the efforts of our fire crews and resulted in a decrease in fire activity.”
The properties downgraded to evacuation alert include:
The following properties remain on evacuation order:
All other evacuation alerts and orders remain in place.
(UPDATE: Aug. 21 @ 3:35 pm) – BC Wildfire Service has implemented an area restriction for the Mount Law wildfire in an effort to further support fire suppression efforts and protect the public.
The area restriction went into effect today at noon and will last until Oct. 15 or until it is rescinded.
People must not enter or remain in the restricted area without written authorization from an official representing the Wildfire Act.
The only acceptable reasons to enter include:
Travelling as a person acting in an official capacity
Travelling for the purpose of supporting wildfire suppression activities
Travelling to or from his or her principle residence, that is not under an evacuation order
Travelling to or from private or leased property for the purposes of accessing a secondary residence or recreational property, that is not under an evacuation order
Using a highway as defined in the Highway Act (e.g. Hwy 5)
Engaging and/or participating in agricultural activities pertaining to livestock or agriculture management on Crown Range, Crown Grazing Lease, private or leased property.
(UPDATE: Aug. 21 @ 10:45 am) – The Mount Law wildfire continues to be estimated at 800 hectares.
There are 45 firefighters, 31 pieces of heavy equipment, 34 support staff and four helicopters on site.
The Central Okanagan Regional District was able to downgrade an evacuation order to an alert for eight properties.
Those properties are listed from 3658 to 3760 Gates Road.
All other evacuation orders and alerts remain in place at this time, visit cordemergency.ca for more information.
Residents who are returning to their homes are reminded they may encounter some hazards and are asked to give way to emergency vehicles and crews.
“Crews are continuing fire suppression efforts within the fire perimeter and will monitor overnight,” says Jason Brolund, fire chief of West Kelowna Fire Rescue.
Last night, crews were unable to engage in a 35 hectare planned ignition due to unfavourable conditions.
However, BCWS personnel are planning for this larger planned ignition in the coming days.
BCWS explains that some small scale hand ignitions will happen today “on the northern side of the fire to burn small pockets of fuel between the fire and the guard.”
Helicopters will be utilized to cool the fire and help ground crews safely perform their ignitions.
Residents in the surrounding areas may notice some smoke during the operations.
(UPDATE: Aug. 20 @ 10:40 am) - The Mt Law wildfire on the outskirts of West Kelowna and Peachland has shown 'no significant growth' over the past 48 hours.
The BC Wildfire Service said lower temperatures, increased precipitation and humidity has helped keep the fire, which threatened caused evacuations in Glenrosa on Sunday night, at 800 hectares.
More firefighters have been sent to the site today and there are now four helicopters working to suppress this fire, along with 69 total firefighters and 30 pieces of heavy equipment.
"The fire is highly visible on the southern slope and is visible from Hwy 97C and the Township of Peachland," explained the latest BCWS update.
"While there is currently no threat to the road and to the town, we ask that all residents and anyone planning on travelling to or through the area to check the BCWS website and DriveBC."
Skimmers will be used to cool the fire today in an effort to slow spread towards the south.
"The fire will however maintain a high visibility throughout today and over night tonight whilst crews continue to work to contain this fire," the BCWS added.
The Regional District of Central Okanagan has opened some parks that were previously closed due to the fire, including Lower Glen Canyon Regional Park, Gellatly Heritage Regional Park and Gellatly Nut Farm Regional Park.
At this time, Trepanier Creek Greenway Regional Park, Coldham Regional Park, Goats Peak Regional Park and Upper Glen Canyon Regional Park remain closed to the public.
There are still a handful of evacuation orders and alerts in place for Glenrosa properties, which you can learn more about on the CORD Emergency website.
(UPDATE: Aug. 19 @ 1 pm): Firefighters continue to battle flare-ups around homes within the Mt Law wildfire perimeter, West Kelowna Fire Chief Jason Brolund has said.
Brolund said his firefighters are trying to make residential areas safe so people can return to their homes.
Despite "favourable weather" helping firefighters, the blaze remains out of control at 800 hectares.
That means evacuation alerts and orders for properties in the area remain in place.
Brolund explained: “We have 33 structural firefighters from six fire departments (West Kelowna, Sundre Alberta, Woss Lake, Pt. McNeill, North Cowichan, Willowbrook) and 10 trucks and [pieces of] equipment on the fire lines today.
"They’re continuing to extinguish hot spots and flare ups around homes within the fire perimeter in order to make the areas safe with the goal of eventually rescinding the evacuation order. BC Wildfire crews continue to action active fire areas on the hillsides with both air and ground support.”
Brolund also said he and his team are grateful for the community's "massive outpouring of support" during the Mt Law fire.
"While we appreciate their generosity, we’re unable to accept donations of food and other supplies," he added.
"Instead, we would really rather residents and property owners help us protect their properties by practising FireSmart techniques.”
BC Wildfire Service, meanwhile, said the fire's management is being transferred to Oliver.
It will now become part of the Okanagan Complex, which includes fires near Okanagan Falls, Osoyoos and Oliver.
BCWS added: "Today additional crews have been put on this incident from within the complex and they will continue to build hand and machine guards around this fire and keep it away from the 97C and homes along the south, east and north.
"A guard constructed along the northern flank was completed on August 15, and the extension of the guard along the western flank down to Highway 97C has been completed."
BCWS said it has 46 firefighters, three helicopters and 11 pieces of heavy equipment at the fire, alongside 34 support staff.
(UPDATE: Aug. 19 @ 8:55 am): There has been "no significant growth" at the Mt Law wildfire over the last 48 hours, BC Wildfire Service reported this morning.
It comes amid lower temperatures, more rain and less humidity, the agency explained.
The fire, however, is still listed as out of control.
It is still estimated to be about 800 hectares in size.
BCWS said this morning that it has 28 firefighters, three helicopters and 28 ground personnel at the fire.
It added: "There is currently support from six water skimmers and four retardant air tankers, whose actions will be highly visible to West Kelowna, Kelowna, and Peachland.
"A multitude of personnel from eight local fire departments will continue to assist on this incident."
(UPDATE: Aug. 18 @ 11:30 am): Two properties affected by the Mt Law wildfire have been downgraded from evacuation order to alert.
They are:
The following 15 properties remain under evacuation order:
Central Okanagan Emergency Operations (CORD) said crews made "good progress" in their efforts to hold the fire overnight.
“I am grateful for all the support our community has received to battle to fire and we really appreciate the cooperation of residents with crews that are still working in the area,” said Jason Brolund, chief of West Kelowna Fire Rescue.
“Crews from BC Wildfire and provincial fire departments including West Kelowna, North Cowichan, Willowbrook, Port Hardy, Port McNeill, Woss and Sundre [in] Alberta as well as the RCMP and private equipment operators are all on the fire today and appreciate the warm reception from the Salvation Army and Emmanuel Church who have provided meals and accommodation.”
CORD said there are 10 trucks and 32 personnel working on the fire today, with more hot spots expected as the weather warms up.
BC Wildfire Service, which said it had 28 firefighters and three helicopters working the fire, still lists the blaze as out of control at 800 hectares.
CORD also warned returning residents that they could encounter "various hazards" caused by the fire.
"Active fire suppression work continues throughout the area of the fire, be respectful and stay out of the way of emergency vehicles and crews," the agency explained.
"Do not block access to streets or properties."
Residents have also been warned to watch out for trees damaged in the fire, which could collapse.
Wild animals, too, could have been affected by the blaze and be in distress.
Those who encounter such animals are urged to call the Conservation Officer Service at 250-828-2551.
(UPDATE: Aug. 17 @ 3:57 pm) - Fire crews have made substantial progress this afternoon in holding the Mount Law wildfire with only one structure significantly damaged and one previously damaged outbuilding further compromised.
CORD has announced that evacuation order and alert areas related to the Mount Law wildfire have been reduced to allow most residents to return to their properties.
Returning residents must be aware of hazards they may encounter as a result of the fire, as active suppression work continues in the area.
Power may still be out in some areas but is being restored as quickly as possible. Check BC Hydro outages for information about your area.
When returning after a power outage, food in your fridge or freezer may no longer be safe to eat, do not take any chances with the safety of your food.
A detailed map showing the rescinded alert and order areas is available at cordemergency.ca, or down below.
17 properties remaining on evacuation order include:
477 properties remain on evacuation alert area and includes:
Residents in the alert areas are reminded to be ready to leave their home at a moment’s notice.
Changes to evacuation order and alert areas https://t.co/dGerTS9sPR
— Central Ok Emergency (@CO_Emerg) August 17, 2021
Wild animals may have been affected by the fire. If you spot an animal in distress, keep your distance and contact the Conservation Office at 250-828-2551.
Postal codes starting with V4T, will not be receiving mail from Canada Post as delivery has been suspended for the time being due to the extreme wildfire activity.
(UPDATE: Aug. 17 @ 12:13 pm) – Though rain has helped to calm the Mt Law wildfire, officials are still warning of danger ahead.
Central Okanagan Emergency Operations said the fire remains out of control and active.
"Cooler temperatures and some light rain overnight provided some relief to crews but conditions remain extremely dry," CORD explained.
West Kelowna Fire Service Chief Jason Brolund said his firefighters are still working hard on the blaze.
“There are currently 44 personnel in the area today," he explained.
"Our focus includes putting out hot spots, continuing patrols and completing damage assessments when it’s safe to do so."
He added: "It’s critical for the safety of our crews and suppression efforts that all residents leave and stay out of evacuated areas.”
Evacuated residents can call 1-833-498-3770 to register and access assistance, such as lodging and food, from Emergency Support Services.
The ESS reception centre at 1480 Sutherland is open 10 am to 6 pm today. Evacuated residents are encouraged to register even if they have accommodations.
CORD also praised the "generous outpouring of support" from the community, but added: "ESS has enough accommodation for evacuees at this time and offers of private accommodation cannot be coordinated at this time."
(UPDATE: Aug. 17 @ 11:30 am) – There has been "no significant growth" at the Mt Law wildfire over the last 24 hours, officials have said.
It is officially still listed at 800 hectares, but the BC Wildfire Service's perimeter map has it at 625.7 hectares.
BCWS still classifies the blaze as out of control, however.
The agency said it had 22 firefighters, three helicopters and multiple pieces of heavy equipment at the scene of the fire.
It added: "There is currently support from six water skimmers and four retardant air tankers, whose actions will be highly visible to West Kelowna, Kelowna, and Peachland.
"A multitude of personnel from eight local fire departments will continue to assist on this incident. Crews remained on site overnight last night."
(UPDATE: Aug. 17 @ 5:32 am) – Another 18 properties were added to the evacuation alert for the Mt Law wildfire last night.
Properties added to the existing alert area are inclusive of 4740 Trepanier Road (northwest end) to 4980 Trepanier Road (southeast end) and include:
Residents in the alert areas are advised to be ready to leave their home at a moment’s notice.
The Emergency Operations Centre has also expanded an evacuation order onto Crown land in the southeast corner of the Mt Law fire.
This expanded order does not include any private property.
The Gorman mill site, meanwhile, remains under evacuation alert.
All other alerts and orders remain in effect.
BC Wildfire Service said the fire remains out of control and is still estimated at at 800 hectares, but that is likely to change when new mapping is released today.
The EOC said last night: "Cooler temperatures and some light rain are helping on the front lines but extremely dry conditions remain. Central Okanagan and BC Wildfire Fire crews will continue suppression efforts in the area on the ground into the night.
"People are asked to stay away from areas close to the fires to ensure the access and safety of first responders. Boaters should avoid areas of the lake being used by air support."
(UPDATE: Aug. 16 @ 11:55 am) – Firefighters are actively battling blazes in people's backyards in Glenrosa as the Mt Law wildfire continues to burn out of control.
In an update on the fire this morning, West Kelowna Fire Rescue Chief Jason Brolund said a "number of streets" in the neighbourhood are in need of protection.
The fire itself – which is thought to have been caused by humans – is now at 800 hectares.
Chief Brolund said the fire spread rapidly last night, moving downhill into Glenrosa.
He said a "small number" of properties may have been damaged.
Brolund said "numerous" residents chose to stay behind despite being ordered to evacuate, which was "concerning" for firefighters.
He added that one firefighter received minor injuries while battling the blaze, but added that "he will be just fine."
Brolund also said firefighters are working hard to protect the Gorman Bros. lumber mill, which was saved from fire in 2009.
BC Wildfire Service said it had seen Rank 4 and 5 (6 is the worst) behaviour at the fire last night.
Crews, however, were "quite successful" in establishing guards.
Objectives today include protecting power lines, steering the fire away from properties and watching for a change in wind.
The agency said it is also hoping for rain in the afternoon.
BCWS said it has 22 firefighters, three helicopters and numerous pieces of heavy equipment at the fire.
"Overnight, a three-kilometre guard was constructed between the fire perimeter and homes near the northern flank of the fire," the agency explained.
"Today, crews will work to reinforce this guard and continue to work with heavy equipment to construct guard from the northern flank, down the western flank towards Highway 97C depending on the terrain."
BCWS added that it has support from six skimmers and four air tankers.
Their actions will be "highly visible" today, the agency warned.
(UPDATE: Aug. 16 @ 9:30 am) – The Central Okanagan Emergency Operations is reporting that there has been “limited” structural damage due to the Mount Law wildfire.
“Due to evolving conditions crews have not been able to complete a full assessment of structure damage.”
The agency will provide more information when it becomes available.
The Regional District of Central Okanagan will also be closing many regional parks.
RDCO explains the closures are for everyone’s safety and will remain closed until further notice.
The closures will also support structural and BC Wildfire crews to do their jobs safely and effectively.
The regional parks include:
RDCO also reminds residents that smoking, open flames, campfires and any type of barbeque are not allowed in any RDCO parks due to the current.
All evacuation orders and alerts remain in place, to see the map click here.
Evacuees are encouraged to register online at ess.gov.bc.ca.
(UPDATE: Aug. 16 @ 5:22 am) – The Mt Law wildfire is still estimated to be 200 hectares early this morning.
BC Wildfire Service said it suspects the fire to be human-caused.
Earlier this morning, Central Okanagan Emergency Operations issued evacuation alerts for another 60 properties, including:
The Evacuation Order for approximately 460 properties put in place earlier on Sunday evening remains in effect and includes:
To see the evacuation map, click here.
There are also dozens of properties without power in the area due to the fire.
BC Hydro said customers west of McIver Road, east of Turnbull Road and south of Rosedale Place are affected.
"Residents in the alert area are advised to be ready to leave their home at a moment’s notice," CORD warned.
"They should be prepared to be away from their home for an extended period of time, consider staying with friends or family in another area of the Central Okanagan, make arrangements for pets and pack essential items such as medicines and important documents."
Residents requiring assistance, including lodging, should report to the Emergency Support Services (ESS) reception centre.
The ESS centre for residents evacuated due to the Mt Law wildfire is in the gym at Mount Boucherie Secondary at 2751 Cameron Road, West Kelowna.
In its most recent update, the BCWS said it had 11 firefighters at the scene, along with multiple pieces of heavy equipment.
(UPDATE: Aug. 15 @ 11:55 pm) – With the fire approaching, people in Glenrosa didn't need any official order.
It was friends and family that let them know, and they just packed up their keepsakes and got out of there.
"We had a lot of calls," said Terry MacPherson. "Saying that there was a fire because they could see the smoke before we could."
Then with police and fire trucks on the street, they made their way out. The MacPherson's were watching the fire from a safe vantage point when they spoke with KelownaNow.
"It's pretty close," said McPherson.
"When we were leaving you could see the flames."
The family had already prepared to bring their most important things in this kind of situation, but still, they wonder.
"I'm kind of numb right now," she said. "Whether we forgot a few things, but we're all together so that's the main thing."
(UPDATE: Aug. 15 @ 10 pm) – BC Wildfire Service is now estimating the fire to be burning at 200 hectares as of 9:30 pm.
The Central Okanagan Emergency Operations has now expanded the evacuation order to include all properties east of Gates Road to Glenrosa Road.
Visit cordemergency.ca for more information.
(UPDATE: Aug.15 @ 9:30 pm ) – The Central Okanagan Emergency Operations has now issued an evacuation alert for all properties in the neighbourhood of Glenrosa, West Kelowna.
Residents should be prepared to leave their homes at a moment's notice.
“They should be prepared to be away from their home for an extended period of time, make arrangements for pets and pack essential items such as medicines and important documents.”
Earlier this evening an evacuation order was issued for properties in the immediate area of the Mount Law wildfire.
This means that residents should leave their homes immediately and register at the Jim Lind Arena located at 2760 Cameron Road, West Kelowna.
Read below for a list of all properties on evacuation order or visit cordemergency.ca for more information.
NowMedia staff will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.
(UPDATE: Aug.15 @ 8:50 pm) – A State of Local Emergency has been declared for the City of West Kelowna in response to a new wildfire that broke out this afternoon.
An evacuation order, effective at 8:03 pm Aug. 15, has now been issued for the following properties:
Visit Central Okanagan Emergency Operations for a view of the current evacuation order map.
The Mount Law (K52627) wildfire is located approximately 6 kilometres southwest of West Kelowna.
BC Wildfire Service is now estimating the fire to be 40 hectares in size and growing due to the strong wind in the area.
#BCWildfire is responding to the Mount Law wildfire (K52627), 6 km SW of West Kelowna with ground crews, air support, and assistance from the West Kelowna FD. This fire is N of Highway 97C, the Okanagan Connector. It is ~ 40 ha and growing due to prevailing winds in the area.
— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) August 16, 2021
(Original Story: Aug. 5 @ 8 pm) – A new wildfire broke out near the Okanagan Connector this afternoon around 5 pm.
The fire, located above Peachland, is estimated to be burning at eight hectares.
Smoke is visible from Peachland, West Kelowna and Kelowna.
BC Fire Information Officers explain that the BC Wildfire Service, West Kelowna Fire Department and RCMP are on scene.
BCWS responded with 11 personnel, four helicopters, four skimmers and two pieces of heavy equipment.
Crews are responding quickly and engaging in bucketing operations.
The fire’s cause is not known at this time.
DriveBC is reporting that the westbound lane is closed between the Highway 97 and Brenda Mine Road – visibility is low.
#BCHwy97C - Limited visibility with smoke has a Westbound lane closure in effect between #BCHwy97 and Brenda Mine road.
— DriveBC (@DriveBC) August 16, 2021
Crews on scene. Expect delays.
More info: https://t.co/lEr5WEvVLm#KelownaBC #AspenGroveBC #MerritBC
NowMedia Staff will update this story as more information becomes available.
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