Evacuations ordered as wildfires spread near Okanagan Lake and Kimberley

Evacuations are underway in British Columbia’s Interior as two fastmoving wildfires threaten communities near Okanagan Lake and in the East Kootenay region. Near Vernon, the outofcontrol Bradley Creek wildfire has grown to more than 10 square kilometres since it was discovered on Friday. The Okanagan Indian Band and the Regional District of North Okanagan issued evacuation orders for residents in affected areas, while nearby properties remain on alert. Westside Road has also been closed, and Stage 3 water restrictions were introduced in Spallumcheen to support firefighting efforts. In southeastern B.C., the newly discovered Wait Creek wildfire near Kimberley prompted tactical evacuations in the Ta Ta Creek area and led to highway closures. Officials said the fire had reached 160 hectares by Saturday evening and was burning with vigorous surface activity. Crews, helicopters and emergency responders are continuing to work on both fires as strong winds help drive the spread.