After enduring over a week of tension and worry, the majority of Summerland, B.C. residents can now head back to their homes. Mayor Doug Holmes expressed relief over the lifting of evacuation orders for around 3,380 properties, marking a significant step towards normalcy for the community of over 12,000 people.
The Bald Range wildfire, which ignited on August 7, prompted the mass evacuation and tragically claimed the life of an 80-year-old woman. Efforts are underway to gradually reopen access to the remaining parts of Summerland in the coming days, as mentioned in a recent briefing by the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen.
The District of Summerland’s chief administrative officer, Graham Statt, highlighted ongoing geotechnical and power-related tasks aimed at ensuring the safety and readiness of the community. Statt expressed optimism about lifting the remaining evacuation order by Thursday, emphasizing the collective commitment to swiftly restore normalcy.
Despite the positive progress, some areas, including Garnet Valley, Prairie Valley, and Meadow Valley, still face evacuation orders affecting 530 properties. The rest of Summerland remains on evacuation alert, demanding readiness for potential evacuation at short notice.
Residents returning home expressed mixed emotions, with relief and gratitude prevailing among those whose houses remained unscathed. While some homes were lost during the wildfire, heroic efforts by firefighters and a stroke of luck spared the downtown core.
Mayor Holmes acknowledged the challenges faced during the evacuation process, emphasizing the importance of a systematic and orderly approach. However, parts of Summerland continue to grapple with safety concerns, including a boil water advisory due to water treatment plant issues and ongoing landfill fires necessitating waste transportation.
As the wildfire, covering 220 square kilometers, persists in an uncontrolled state, firefighters are focusing on containing its aggressive behavior on the western front. The community remains vigilant, with ongoing support provided to those affected by property damage, as efforts continue to bring stability and safety back to Summerland.