Evacuation order downgraded, alerts lifted for Quilpituk Creek Wildfire

Quilpituk Creek Wildfire

Central Okanagan West Electoral Area, B.C. – The evacuation orders for all properties from Cinnabar Creek to Westshore Estates have been DOWNGRADED to an evacuation alert, and the evacuation alerts for properties south of Cinnabar Creek in the Wilson’s Landing area have been LIFTED for the Quilpituk Creek Wildfire.

Visit coemergency.ca/map for more information on addresses affected.

Phased re-entry access 

To support an organized return home and limit traffic congestion, access will be provided in phases. Residents must return home entering on the south end of Westside Road from West Kelowna. The north end of Westside Road remains closed and there will be no access past Westshore Estates.

Traffic control personnel will be on site and a no stopping zone has been established near the fire area. For the safety of crews, please follow traffic control signs and follow posted speed limits. Access is for local traffic only.

An information checkpoint has been set up at Wilson’s Landing Fire Station where the Returning Home Guide will be provided to residents.

Re-entry timing

Beginning 9 a.m., residents who live in the Cinnabar Creek, Secret Point, Shelter Cover, Caesars Landing, and Nahun areas can return home.

Beginning 10 a.m., residents who live in the La Casa, Fintry, Upper Fintry, Shalal Road, Valley of the Sun, and Ewings Landing areas can return home.

Beginning 11 a.m., residents who live in the Estamont Beach, Killiney Beach, and Westshore Estates areas can return home.

What to expect

Out of an abundance of caution, residents returning home are recommended to inspect their property and trees to assess any issues or damage before re-entry.

Check the status of water quality advisories in your area with your water utility provider. Visit drinkingwaterforeveryone.ca/advisorymap for the latest information.

Download the Returning Home Guide at rdco.com/returninghome for information and tips on how to clean up safely.

No structural loss has been reported, but property owners should start insurance claims if they suspect wildfire damage and report it as soon as possible to their insurance representative. Other additional information on re-entry can be found here: Recover after a wildfire - Province of British Columbia 

Hours at the North Westside Transfer Station have been extended and it will also be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. More information at rdco.com/recycle.

Property hazards

Neighbourhoods may show visible signs of wildfire impacts, including ash, soot, smoke residue and debris on properties and roadways. Residents should also be aware of damaged vegetation, burned areas and hazard trees that may pose a risk to people, vehicles and structures. Everyone is encouraged to remain alert, exercise caution when moving around their property and follow any safety directions or signage in place to support ongoing recovery efforts.

The public must stay out of fire-affected areas for their own safety and obey all warnings and hazards.

Fire suppression

Fire crews will continue extinguishing hot spots, conducting patrols, and monitoring conditions. Watch for the movement of personnel and equipment throughout the zone. Residents should still expect smoke to be seen in burned areas.

Residents may also encounter roadside recovery work, heavy equipment and increased traffic from contractors, emergency responders and support agencies working in the area.

Emergency Operations Centre personnel, partners and response agencies are continuing to monitor and manage the situation. Residents in the alert area are reminded to be prepared to leave immediately if conditions change.

Important reminders

  • Residents should continue to monitor coemergency.ca  and subscribe for notifications at coemergency.ca/subscribe. You can also follow Central Okanagan Emergency Management on X (@CO_Emerg) and Facebook (facebook.com/coemergencymanagement) for up-to-date information.

  • The operation of any off-road vehicle for recreational purposes on Crown land is prohibited throughout Kamloops Fire Centre.

  • Stay informed of air quality alerts and find out what you can do to protect yourself from the effects of wildfire smoke by visiting Wildfires | Interior Health.

  • To reach the call centre at the Emergency Operations Centre, call 250-469-8490.

For the latest information on evacuation orders, alerts, map and wildfire response activities, visit the Central Okanagan Emergency Operations website: Quilpituk Creek Wildfire information page

and BC Wildfire Service.