After enduring over a week of tension and worry, the majority of Summerland, B.C., inhabitants are now allowed to go back to their residences. The announcement was met with relief by Mayor Doug Holmes, who described it as the much-awaited news after a challenging week. Following the rapid spread of the Bald Range wildfire on August 7, which tragically resulted in the death of an 80-year-old woman, the community of more than 12,000 had to evacuate.
Holmes revealed that the evacuation order for 3,380 properties, constituting the majority of Summerland, was lifted at 7 a.m. PT on Tuesday. The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen reported in an evening briefing that efforts were underway to grant access to the remaining parts of Summerland in the coming days. Geotechnical assessments and power restoration activities are ongoing, as confirmed by Graham Statt, the District of Summerland’s chief administrative officer.
Statt expressed optimism about fully reopening the community and lifting the evacuation order by Thursday, emphasizing the team’s dedication to achieving this goal through diligent efforts. Notably, a smaller number of properties had their evacuation orders rescinded over the weekend.
Returning residents in Summerland expressed relief and gratitude upon finding their homes intact after fearing the worst during the wildfire. Individuals like Jan Schumacher and Cory Lee Myers shared emotional accounts of their experiences, highlighting the uncertainty and stress they faced before being able to return home.
Summerland’s fire chief, Rob Robinson, commended the efforts of the firefighting teams in preserving the downtown area despite some homes being lost. While progress has been made in allowing residents to return, 530 properties in Garnet Valley, Prairie Valley, and Meadow Valley are still under evacuation orders. The rest of Summerland remains on evacuation alert, with residents advised to stay prepared for any further developments.
Holmes acknowledged the challenges faced by the community during the evacuation process, emphasizing the importance of a methodical and orderly approach to ensuring safety. However, he noted that the current situation marks a significant milestone in the community’s recovery process.
Despite the positive developments, certain areas in Summerland remain hazardous, requiring additional assessments before residents can fully return. A boil water advisory is in effect due to the water treatment plant’s temporary closure, and the landfill fire necessitates trash disposal at a regional facility. Initial assessments revealed approximately 150 structures damaged or destroyed by the fire, with support services being provided to those affected.
As of the latest update, the wildfire spanning 220 square kilometers is still classified as out of control. Firefighters are actively managing the situation, containing the fire on the southern and eastern fronts while addressing the ongoing challenges on the western side.
