UPDATE: August 18, 2023 - 11:30 AM
Yesterday, the Shuswap Emergency Program prepared for the chance the Evacuation Alerts currently in place for Lee Creek and Scotch Creek would be upgraded to Evacuation Orders. BC Wildfire did a planned ignition of about 14km in length. This back burn was in attempts to control the direction of the fire.
Due to high wind speeds and change of wind direction, last night at 2300 hours, the CSRD issued an Evacuation ORDER for 4001 to 4596 Meadow Creek Road and an Evacuation ALERT for 4705, 4831, 4836 Meadow Creek Road and 4989, 4993 Line 17 Road, Celista in Electoral Area F. The evacuations were due to spot fire that jumped over the guard near Meadow Creek Road at the very top of the back burn.
It is critical that you evacuate when an evacuation order is issued to you - this is for your safety as well as first responders' safety.
The Shuswap Emergency Program is preparing for the chance the Evacuation Alerts currently in place for Lee Creek and Scotch Creek will be upgraded to Evacuation Orders. That has NOT happened yet, but the wind situation is not favourable for this afternoon. Now is the time to prepare yourself for an evacuation.
- Get prepared with grab-and-go bags and important personal items.
- Make sure your Alertable app settings include: “Columbia Shuswap Electoral Area F.”
- Accommodation is limited in the Shuswap. The best thing to do is make arrangements to stay with family and friends in case of an evacuation. If this is not an option and you are on Evacuation Order, your accommodation needs and possible solutions will be discussed when you check in at an Emergency Reception Centre.
- If you leave the Alert area and an Order comes through, you will not be able to return, even to pick up family members or pets. If you plan to be away from home, make sure you have arrangements in place for those that will be staying behind.
- Pre-register for Emergency Support Services by visiting Quaaout Lodge. If you are not on Evacuation Order - do not go here. If you have chosen to self-evacuate, be self-sufficient, turn to your insurance provider if necessary, and stay informed for updates.
- Access on the Squilax-Anglemont Road is limited and should an Evacuation Order happen, that road may be converted to one-way access out of the area except for emergency vehicles.
- BC Wildfire and the Shuswap Emergency Program are planning and monitoring fire behaviour. The wooden bridge at Squilax-Anglemont Road is being watered to help protect the it from fire.
We will be updating again later today. Please try to stay informed through the BC Wildfire Dashboard, CSRD and Shuswap Emergency Program website and social media.