The Bradley Creek wildfire burning northwest of Vernon has been spreading rapidly, prompting an evacuation alert for properties along the west side of Okanagan Lake.
The wildfire was discovered Friday night and was estimated at 200 hectares as of 11:56 a.m. Saturday. The fire is displaying Rank 2 fire behaviour.
The B.C .Wildfire Service (BCWS) said most of the fire’s growth Saturday morning was due to the grassy fuels where the wildfire started.
The B.C. Wildfire Service has been assisting the Okanagan Indian Band Fire Department with firefighting efforts. Ground crews are being supported by airtankers and skimmer aircraft.
The public are asked to stay away from firefighting operations, particularly on Okanagan Lake.
The public is asked to stay away from firefighting operations, particularly on Okanagan Lake.
In a Facebook post Saturday, the B.C. Wildfire Service said it was experiencing challenges with boaters getting too close to emergency aircraft picking up water on Okanagan Lake.
“Our aircraft require space to collect water safely and efficiently. Please stay clear of aircraft working in and around the lake,” the agency said.
The Regional District of North Okanagan has issued an evacuation alert for numerous properties because of the Bradley Creek wildfire and a forecast wind event.
Residents in the affected areas should be prepared to leave on short notice if conditions worsen.
The full evacuation alert is available on the Regional District of North Okanagan website.
