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Republished August 28, 2017 - 11:53 AM
Original Publication Date August 28, 2017 - 8:37 AM
KELOWNA - Residents of more than 100 properties in Joe Rich can return home today, despite the 465 hectare fire being only 20 per cent contained.
The wildfire burning east of Kelowna forced more than 1,100 people from their homes Friday, however crews have managed to keep all threatened properties safe.
On Sunday, the Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Centre lifted an evacuation order for 263 properties, and about 600 residents were allowed to go home. At roughly 11:30 a.m., Aug. 28, evacuation orders were lifted for 120 more.
Those properties on Goudie Road, Peregrine Road and Sun Valley Road are now on evacuation alert and residents should be prepared to leave again at a moments notice.
For an updated, interactive map of the revised evacuation order and alert areas, visit the Regional District emergency website.
The evacuation order remains in effect for 160 properties and 380 residents.
About 90 firefighters along with two dozen trucks and water tenders are battling the blaze today, Aug. 28.
Emergency Operations says other than household pets, like cats and dogs, animals are not allowed back in at this time, due to the uncertainty about fire behaviour and the potential for Evacuation Orders to be re-instated if necessary.
Residents on the Falcon Ridge water system are restricted to household use only – no irrigation permitted to preserve water supply to fight the fire, officials say.
The Emergency Support Services reception centre will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, Aug. 28, at the Willow Park Church along Highway 33 in Kelowna.
Highway 33 remains closed. For the latest information on the closure go to Drive B.C.
The Philpott Road fire was discovered on Thursday, Aug. 24.
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News from © iNFOnews, 2017