Officials have expanded the evacuation order triggered by the Quilpituk Creek wildfire that’s been burning north of Kelowna, B.C., since Saturday. Central Okanagan Emergency Management said the order now includes properties in the Caesars Landing that has previously been on evacuation alert. “Residents on evacuation order should leave their properties immediately to keep safe. The evacuation route is south on Westside Road,” reads a notice on the COEM website. “Please follow instructions of emergency personnel and traffic control in the area.” Meanwhile, dozens of new properties in the Shelter Cove, Secret Point and Cinnabar Creek areas have been placed on evacuation alert. Affected residents have been urged to prepare an emergency kit and gather essential belongings—such as medications, important documents, pet supplies and other necessities—but not to “self-evacuate” or get into their vehicles “unless specifically directed to do so.” “Unnecessary travel can contribute to congestion and hinder emergency response operations,” the alert reads. People living near the fire can find out if they’re under an evacuation order or alert using the COEM’s interactive map. Officials said as of Monday morning, there were no structures “immediately threatened” by the blaze, which has spread to an estimated 550 hectares and remains classified as out of control. The B.C. Wildfire Service said growth is being driven by the sloping terrain, but that crews continued attacking the blaze overnight with tankers. The suspected cause is human activity, either accidental or intentional. Further up the lake, the much larger Bradley Creek wildfire estimated at more than 2,600 hectares. Officials said there was no significant growth on that fire Sunday, overnight or Monday morning.
