Wildfire Near Princeton, B.C. Forces Evacuation of Dozens of Properties

A wildfire near Princeton, B.C. has forced the evacuation of dozens of properties and put others on alert. The August Lake wildfire is 0.14 square kilometers in size and is suspected to be human-caused. Fire crews are fighting the blaze, and helicopters are assisting ground crews. The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen has issued an evacuation order and alert for residential and agricultural lands in the surrounding area.

A wildfire near Princeton, British Columbia, has led to the evacuation of dozens of properties and placed others on alert. The August Lake wildfire, currently 14 hectares in size, is suspected to be human-caused. Firefighting efforts are underway, with helicopters assisting ground crews in battling the blaze.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen has issued evacuation orders and alerts for residential and agricultural lands in the surrounding area. Evacuation orders have been implemented for properties south of Highway 3, west to Amber Hill Road/Darcy Mountain Road adjacent to the sewer treatment plant, and east of Willies Ranch Road. This includes the Princeton Golf Club and properties on Taylor Mill Drive. Residents under evacuation order must leave immediately and report to the Princeton Emergency Support Services Reception Centre at the Princeton & District Arena at 167 Old Hedley Rd. Evacuation alerts have been issued for properties north of Highway 3 along the Similkameen River, south of Princeton Cemetery Road, east of Copper Mountain Road, and west of Willie Ranch Road.

Firefighting efforts have been intensive, with multiple resources, including helicopters and air tankers, being deployed. The fire is displaying rank two to three behavior, indicating a moderately vigorous surface fire with a moderate rate of spread. Fire crews are prioritizing the northern flank of the fire to prevent it from moving closer to structures. Despite the progress made, the fire remains out of control and is expected to diminish in intensity overnight due to cooler temperatures and increased humidity.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen encourages residents to sign up for Voyent Alert! notifications for timely updates on the situation. The next update is scheduled for Sunday, July 13, at 10:30 a.m., unless the situation changes.

References:
[1] https://www.castanet.net/news/Penticton/561234/Evacuation-order-and-alerts-at-August-Lake-wildfire-near-Princeton
[2] https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/breakiing-wildfire-ignites-near-princeton-golf-course-8129391