Officials Urge Residents Still in Okanagan Wildfire Evacuation Zone to Leave Immediately

Central Okanagan Emergency Management (COEM) is urging anyone still inside the evacuation zone for the Quilpituk Creek wildfire to leave immediately.

Officials said they have learned that some residents have chosen to remain in areas covered by evacuation orders. COEM stressed that these orders are issued to protect lives and should not be treated as optional.

Evacuation orders are put in place when conditions pose a serious risk to public safety and are designed to ensure residents can leave while roads and evacuation routes remain accessible.

Officials warned that staying behind can put residents, their families and emergency personnel in greater danger.

Quilpituk Creek Wildfire Reaches 1,139 Hectares

Fire crews have made progress battling the Quilpituk Creek wildfire, which is burning north of West Kelowna.

The wildfire is currently estimated at 1,139 hectares, but officials cautioned that conditions can shift rapidly.

Forecast winds could increase fire activity in some locations over the coming days, meaning residents should not assume they will have enough time to evacuate later if the situation worsens.

Emergency Services May Be Limited

COEM also warned residents who remain inside evacuation order areas that access to emergency services may be delayed or unavailable.

Wildfire activity, road closures, damaged infrastructure and other safety hazards can prevent firefighters, paramedics, police and other emergency workers from safely reaching affected areas.

Multiple evacuation orders and evacuation alerts remain active because of the Quilpituk Creek wildfire.

Deliveries Prohibited in Evacuation Zones

Deliveries are also not permitted inside areas covered by evacuation orders.

This restriction includes food, fuel, generator supplies, packages and other personal items.

Residents who choose to remain despite evacuation orders should also not expect reliable electricity or drinking water services.

Although restoration work is underway, officials said current efforts are primarily focused on supporting wildfire operations and preparing affected communities for the safe return of evacuated residents once conditions improve.

Central Okanagan Emergency Management continues to urge residents inside Quilpituk Creek wildfire evacuation zones to leave immediately. Although firefighters are making progress, changing winds and unpredictable wildfire behaviour could quickly increase the danger.

Officials are emphasizing that evacuation orders are intended to protect residents and emergency responders while safe evacuation routes remain available.