Fire’s damage toll rises

Five more properties in the Westside Road area have sustained significant damage from the White Rock Lake wildfire.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan said the damaged structures were discovered by fire department members in the Killiney and Ewings Landing areas Wednesday, which brings the total number of properties damaged in the RDCO North Westside area to around 75.

Another 15 damaged structures were confirmed on the Okanagan Indian Band reserve earlier this week after a destructive, wind and heat-driven run by the fire on Aug. 15 and 16, which saw growth of around 17,000 hectares.

Crews continue to patrol affected areas and action spot fires while staying on site overnight. Cooler temperatures have provided some reprieve, however conditions remain extremely dry and the fire is still classified out of control and continues to be active.

“Yesterday was a day of healing as a number of support agencies were escorted by North Westside Fire Rescue into the area,” said Alex Van Bruksvoort, Fire Chief North Westside Fire Rescue. “Pets were rescued, areas of damage were mapped and we were able to welcome residents back to areas that were taken off evacuation order and put on alert.”

The Central Okanagan’s Emergency Operations Centre has been working to contact all property owners whose properties have been significantly damaged in the fires. Staff have been in touch with most property owners and will continue to notify impacted residents directly.