This is the Jack Creek wildfire that started Sept. 7, 2022
Image Credit: FACEBOOK/BCWildfie
September 08, 2022 - 8:06 AM
A wildfire overlooking the Okanagan Connector has triggered an evacuation alert for 17 properties along Maxwell Road near Peachland.
It’s been dubbed the Jack Creek wildfire and is on the south side of the Okanagan Connector above where the highway crosses Trepanier Creek
“The fire is currently estimated at two hectares in size and classified as out of control,” B.C. Wildfire posted on its Facebook page yesterday evening, Sept. 7.
“Airtankers and helicopters are responding, and crews are enroute. It is currently a visible surface fire with occasional candling and a moderate rate of spread (rank 2-3). This fire is highly visible from the City of Kelowna and the surrounding area.”
Rank 2 fires are “low vigour” surface fires characterized by visible open flame with an unorganized or inconsistent flame front and with a slow rate of spread, according to B.C. Wildfire. Rank 3 fires are “moderately vigorous” surface fires with a flame front progressing in and organized manner with some trees candling and a moderate rate of speed.
“Residents in the area are advised to be ready to leave their home at a moment’s notice,” says a post on the Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Centre’s website. “They should be prepared to be away from their homes for an extended period of time, make arrangements for pets and pack essential items such as medicines and important documents.”
An interactive map, here, shows the areas on alert in the rural Central Okanagan West electoral district.
An update on the status of the warning is expected by midmorning today.
The public is asked to avoid the Maxwell Road area so they don’t get in the way of firefighting crews.
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