Wednesday, July 28, 2021
Extreme weather conditions continued to cause significant growth on the White Rock Lake Fire. Conditions in many areas are extremely smoky, which is hampering the ability for aircraft to fly. This is challenging suppression efforts. To protect the safety of the public and first responders, the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) will continue to evaluate the need for further evacuation order and alert recommendations. Fire size is estimated at 20,000 hectares and remains out of control.
All orders and alerts issued by the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) remain unchanged. The CSRD implemented an Evacuation Order for 10 properties near Pinaus Lake. On July 27, the CSRD expanded the Evacuation Alert issued on July 26, to include the south-west corner of CSRD Electoral Area D, including the communities of Falkland and Sweetsbridge (Cedar Hill), and all properties along Chase-Falkland Road to Joyce Lake.
The fire is affecting areas of the CSRD, Thompson Nicola Regional District, the Regional District of North Okanagan and the Okanagan Indian Band.
Given the amount of fuel loading and forecasted weather conditions, elevated fire behaviour is expected to continue. On Thursday, thunderstorms, strong winds and dry lightning are in the regional forecast. Hot and dry conditions will remain through the weekend. Fire growth is expected to the east and northeast.
Residents on Evacuation Alert are reminded to be prepared to leave their homes on short notice. Now is the time to get you, your family, your pets and your vehicles ready to go, if an Evacuation Order is issued.
Currently, the BCWS has 117 firefighters (including 100 firefighters from Quebec), 36 pieces of Heavy Equipment, seven helicopters, one Structural Protection specialist, four structure protection personnel, and nine firefighters from three fire departments.