The BC Wildfire Service is responding to a new wildfire north of Highway 33, approximately 20 kilometres east of Kelowna and just north of the community of Joe Rich.
Image Credit: Facebook/B.C. Wildfire Service
August 26, 2017 - 4:30 PM
KELOWNA - The Philpott Road wildfire continues to burn in the Joe Rich area, however, favourable weather conditions have caused no significant changes to the fire overnight.
The blaze in the Joe Rich area has been estimated to be 465 hectares. Currently, the cause of the fire is being investigated, according to a Central Okanagan Emergency Operations media release.
The Evacuation Order is being assessed but it will only be adjusted only when it is safe to do so. Click the link for an interactive map of the evacuation order area and to sign up for emergency e-updates.
Roadblocks and closures are still in effect and if you are in the area be cautious because people are working or stationed close to the road.
McCulloch Road is the detour, however, be cautious because it is is not a regularly maintained and is only recommended for non-commercial, passenger vehicles. Extreme caution should be taken when driving in the area and you should not exceed more than 35 kilometres an hour.
The Willow Park Church located at 439 Highway 33 West is the Emergency Support Services reception centre. It will be open again today at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Anyone under evacuation order should check in with Emergency Support Services.
Residents affected by the Philpott Road wildfire are eligible for up to $600 financial assistance per household by registering with Red Cross, according to a Central Okanagan Emergency Operations media release. You can register online or by calling 1-800-863-6582.
Residents can see which properties are still under the evacuation order by clicking the link.
For the very latest updates and information go to the Central Okanagan Emergency Operations website here.
You can also monitor our Social Media channels on Facebook or Twitter for the latest updates.
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News from © iNFOnews, 2017