Evacuation alert lifted for Armstrong

Residents of Armstrong are no longer under an evacuation alert due to the White Rock Lake wildfire.

The city has lifted the alert issued on Sunday, August 15, that covered all areas of the North Okanagan city of about 4,800 residents.

The change in status was based on a recommendation by the BC Wildfire Service.

The city’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) will remain open at a reduced level and the wildfire situation will be closely monitored.

“Although we welcome this reprieve from evacuation alert, the City of Armstrong encourages residents to remain vigilant, stay connected, and to keep their items packed in the event that the situation evolves. The White Rock Lake wildfire is still considered out of control and the situation is fluid,” said a news release from Dawn Low, EOC Director and Warren Smith, Deputy EOC Director.

The fire has seen reduced activity since Sunday thanks to cooler, wetter weather.

“The city continues to closely monitor the White Rock Lake wildfire, in conjunction with the Armstrong-Spallumcheen Fire Department, Emergency Management BC, BC Wildfire and neighbouring communities and will advise residents of any changes on the city’s website.

Low and Smith added the city used the time while under the alert to ensure emergency measures for the city are up to date, accurate and can be implemented quickly should an evacuation order be needed.

“The communities most vulnerable have been identified and mechanisms for assistance for relocation are in place. The city’s critical infrastructure has been evaluated and emergency measures for protection are clearly identified,” the news release stated.

A review of the communication systems is also underway with the goal to ensure that residents can obtain accurate information in the case of future emergencies.

The city’s Emergency Operations Centre will be providing updates as the situation progresses.