Patience pleaded with wildfire evacuees as Westside Road remains closed near Vernon
Published 4:00 pm Thursday, August 13, 2026
While both the Bradley Creek and Quilpituk Creek wildfires are held, evacuated residents can’t go home yet.
“We recognize how difficult and stressful this situation has been for those who remain under evacuation,” the Regional District of North Okanagan said. “While we know residents want to return as soon as possible, public safety must remain our top priority.”
Westside Road, within the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB), remains closed at the north end due to ongoing wildfire recovery operations and critical infrastructure work being carried out in partnership with BC Hydro.
The OKIB Emergency Operations Centre continues to work towards re-opening further areas of the reserve.
“At this time significant work remains for the fire affected area,” the OKIB said Thursday, Aug. 13.
In addition to fire crews, danger tree assessment and removal work will be taking place over the coming days.
An initial assessment was completed around essential infrastructure and now work has started for more fulsome danger tree mitigation coverage.
Meanwhile OKIB and BC Wildfire crews continue mopping up hotspots within the fire area.
“Residents are advised that although Bradley Creek Wildfire is in ‘being held’ status, it is still an active fire and spot fires may become more visible as smoke continues to clear in the north Okanagan,” the OKIB said.
Restricted access is necessary to protect residents, emergency responders, BC Hydro personnel, and recovery crews as this work continues.
“The RDNO appreciates the patience, understanding, and cooperation of affected residents during this challenging time,” the RDNO said. “We remain committed to providing updates as conditions change and access can be safely restored.
Thank you for your continued support as recovery efforts move forward.”
The Bradley Creek wildfire is held at 2,650.3 hectares.
“Sunny conditions are expected today (Thursday), with warm and dry conditions contributing to increased smoke column development,” the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) said. “During the afternoon, temperatures and relative humidity may reach levels that can increase fire behaviour.”
The BCWS also says new fire starts in dry conifer fuels have the potential to spread rapidly, particularly if they are affected by changing or gusty winds.
Warm and dry conditions are expected to continue Friday and Saturday, with temperatures increasing toward 28 to 30 degrees Celsius and relative humidity decreasing toward 20 per cent.
Winds are expected to remain generally light, with a small risk of isolated late-day thunderstorms and minimal precipitation.
“Any thunderstorm activity could produce gusty winds and an increased risk of fire behaviour.”
