After enduring over a week filled with worry and tension, the majority of Summerland, B.C., residents can now head back to their homes. Mayor Doug Holmes expressed relief at the announcement, stating it was the news everyone had been eagerly anticipating following the rapid spread of the Bald Range wildfire on August 7, which tragically claimed the life of an elderly woman.
A significant development occurred on Tuesday morning when an evacuation order was lifted for 3,380 properties, representing what Mayor Holmes described as “the majority of Summerland.” The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen shared in a briefing later that day that efforts were underway to grant access to the remaining parts of Summerland in the upcoming days.
Chief Administrative Officer Graham Statt mentioned ongoing geotechnical and power-related work being carried out to ensure the safety of the community. Statt expressed optimism that the remaining areas would be accessible by Thursday once the evacuation order was lifted.
Over the weekend, evacuation orders were lifted for a smaller number of properties, bringing relief to returning residents who had been anxiously awaiting news about the safety of their homes. Residents like Jan Schumacher and Cory Lee Myers expressed their gratitude and emotions upon finding their homes intact after fearing the worst during the wildfire.
Summerland’s Fire Chief Rob Robinson highlighted the efforts made to protect the community, particularly mentioning the challenges faced on Herron Road in the Cartwright area. Despite some homes being lost, Robinson emphasized the successful preservation of the downtown core.
As of the latest update, 530 properties in Garnet Valley, Prairie Valley, and Meadow Valley remain under evacuation orders. Other residents are on evacuation alert and must be prepared to evacuate promptly if necessary.
Mayor Holmes stressed the importance of safety measures, indicating that remaining areas are still deemed unsafe until stability assessments are completed. He also mentioned ongoing concerns such as a boil water advisory and the landfill fire, which necessitates waste disposal at a regional facility.
Regarding the impact of the wildfire, initial assessments revealed approximately 150 structures were damaged or destroyed, with around 40 of them situated within the municipal boundaries. Efforts were made to support affected individuals, with social workers and counselors providing assistance and allowing them to inspect their properties before the general lifting of the evacuation order.
As of the latest report, the fire spanning 220 square kilometers remains categorized as out of control. Firefighters have contained the fire along the southern and eastern fronts and are now concentrating on managing the aggressive behavior observed on the western side.