As the Bradley Creek wildfire continues to burn on Sunday morning (Aug. 2), it is now estimated to be 2,603 hectares in size.
Additionally, all evacuation orders and alerts remain in place.
These orders and alerts have been issued by multiple organizations including the Okanagan Indian Band, Regional District of North Okanagan, The Corporation of the Township of Spallumcheen, Splatsin Kukpi7 & Tkwamipla, Columbia Shuswap Regional District, and the City of Armstrong. In total, there are four evacuation orders and five alerts.
Orders mean the residents must leave immediately, while alerts mean affected residents must be ready at a moment’s notice to leave.
Evacuees of the Bradley Creek wildfire can be supported through Emergency Support Service (ESS).
“Evacuees can register for Emergency Support Services by calling the BC Evacuee Helpline at 1-800-387-4258. The helpline is currently open until 9 p.m. to support people affected by wildfires. The Reception Centre at Kal Tire Place, 3445 43rd Avenue, Vernon, remains open to provide registration support, information, resources and referrals for evacuees who require in-person assistance,” the City of Vernon said in an email to Black Press.
“Evacuees who need Emergency Support Services are strongly encouraged to register by phone if they are able to do so, rather than attending the Reception Centre in person. Registering by phone will help reduce wait times and allow ESS volunteers to support those who need in-person assistance most urgently.”
The City said the reception centre will stay open “as long as possible” but did not remain open overnight. The reception centre will reopen this morning.
Evacuees are encouraged to stay with friends or family overnight. The City is encouraging residents to sign up for emergency notifications app Alertable.
Due to the Bradley Creek, Quilpituk Creek, and Blue Grouse Creek wildfires, the entirety of Westside Road is closed. In Vernon, Highway 97 is also closed from the Highway 97A junction to Salmon River Road.
BC Wildfire Service has been assisting the Okanagan Indian Band Fire Department with the blaze. Crews remained on-site overnight to conduct patrols for structure protection and structure defence.
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On Saturday night, as the fire was moving north, it jumped Highway 97, causing the blaze to extend.
The fire was discovered late on Friday, July 31.
Black Press Media will update this wildfire throughout the day.