Canada: Wildfires continue to cause disruptions across British Columbia as of Aug. 18 /update 1

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires burning across British Columbia as of Aug. 18. Authorities report 372 active fires burning across the province, of which 157 are out of control. Further details on the 14 wildfires of note can be found here. Drought conditions are hampering firefighting efforts. Officials have declared a provincewide state of emergency for British Columbia. About 15,000 people are under evacuation orders, while more than 20,000 are under evacuation alerts across the province as of the evening of Aug. 18. Officials are expecting further evacuation orders and wildfires in the coming hours and days.

Notable wildfires include the McDougall Creek Fire, which has spread to approximately 10,500 hectares (25,946 acres) in size. Authorities have set up reception centers for evacuees at Salvation Army for those in Kelowna, Royal LePage Place for those from West Kelowna, and Kal Tire Place in Vernon for residents north of Trader Cove. The wildfires have destroyed a significant number of properties in the Trader Cove area and along Bear Lake Road north of West Kelowna. The Crater Creek Fire was approximately 22,000 hectares (54,363 acres) in size. An emergency shelter is located at 199 Ellis Street in Penticton.

Environment Canada has issued special air quality statements for southern and central southern British Columbia due to the impact of smoke from the wildfires.

Authorities have advised against nonessential travel to central and southeast British Columbia. Many roads near the wildfire complexes are closed, including sections of several highways. Details on road closures across British Columbia can be found here. Officials have also closed the airspace around Kelowna International Airport (YLW), prompting the cancellations of flights Aug. 18. Authorities have not provided a timeframe as to when the airspace will reopen.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.

Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.

Resources

British Columbia Wildfire Service
Drive BC
Environment Canada
Kelowna International Airport