British Columbia: An evacuation alert has been issued for over 500 properties in the Central Okanagan following a newly erupted wildfire. The alert impacts more than 1,100 people in a popular tourist destination north of West Kelowna.
The wildfire is spreading in the La Casa region on the western shore of Okanagan Lake. Central Okanagan Emergency Management has advised residents and visitors at the La Casa Lakeside Resort and La Casa Cottages to be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
According to the BC Wildfire Service, the fire (designated K51214), which was discovered around 4:00 PM on Saturday, rapidly expanded to cover approximately 5.18 hectares (0.05 square kilometers). Fourteen firefighters, in coordination with the North Westside Fire Department, are actively battling the blaze, supported by multiple aircraft and helicopters.
Skimmer aircraft and helicopters are scooping water directly from the lake to suppress the flames. Consequently, boaters have been urged to stay clear of areas where aircraft are operating to avoid impeding firefighting efforts. The fire is currently burning at Rank 2 and Rank 3 intensity, producing visible smoke plumes.
