Structural fire crews from the Districts of Peachland and West Kelowna and forest fire crews with the BC Wildfire Management Branch continue to pour significant resources in to the Drought Hill Forest Fire.
Eighty-seven firefighters, two water tankers on the ground and six aircraft are working to keep the wildfire at bay.
With little wind activity so far today, crews have been able to keep the blaze to 40 hectares in size. The fire is not yet contained and crews continue to work to establish guards through rough terrain. The potential for localized wind gusts and hot, dry weather remain concerns. An Evacuation Order will remain in place for one property in the 4700 block of MacKinnon Road. No further orders or alerts are anticipated at this time.
The Visitor Information Centre on the south side of the Okanagan Connector – Highway 97C across from the fire will remain closed today in the interest of public protection and the safety of air and ground crews fighting the fire.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure reminds motorists of westbound and eastbound lane closures along Highway 97C the Okanagan Connector, approximately four kilometers from the junction with Highway 97. Watch for emergency vehicles in the area. For the latest highway information visit www.drivebc.ca
Emergency response personnel request that the public:
Slow down on Highway 97C through the fire zone, stay away from emergency vehicles and watch for lane closure signage and traffic personnel.
Monitor www.cordemergency.ca, www.facebook.com/CORDEmergency or www.twitter.com/CO_Emerg for confirmed information about the situation.
Please only CALL 911 in case of emergency.
