A wildfire that destroyed more than 200 homes in B.C.’s Okanagan is being held, according to officials. The B.C. Wildfire Service said Saturday evening that the Bradley Creek wildfire is no longer classified as out of control. “At this stage, the wildfire is projected, based on fuel and weather conditions and resource availability, to remain within the current perimeter, control line or boundary,” said an online update. “This status change can also be attributed to the collaboration between wildfire crews, local fire departments, partners, aviation, heavy equipment and the tireless work to patrol the entire fire perimeter.” The fire broke out on July 31, and its size currently estimated at roughly 26 square kilometres. Its explosive growth—fueled by fierce winds and tinder-dry conditions—forced harrowing evacuations. The Okanagan Indian Band, in an update of its own Saturday, said evacuation orders prompted by the blaze are being reviewed. “In some areas, enough progress has been made to allow residents to return. In others, there is still work to be completed. Each decision is being made carefully with the best information available,” a statement online said. One of the factors being weighed when deciding whether to lift an evacuation order is the “significant” extent of property loss. “We recognize that some residents may know their own home is OK, and understandably want to return. But in many of these same areas, neighbouring homes have been severely damaged or lost,” the statement said. “Families deserve the opportunity to receive confirmed information about their property privately. We ask for patience and respect for our neighbours and their privacy while this difficult work continues.” Work to restore hydro and access to safe drinking water is also ongoing.
