Westside wildfire now held

Update Tuesday 4 p.m.

The BC Wildfire Service website has changed the status of the Bald Range Creek fire to held.

That classifies the wildfire as one that is not likely to spread beyond predetermined boundaries under current conditions.

Update Tuesday 1 p.m.

The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has rescinded the Evacuation Alerts for 18 properties located between 3985 to 4069 Westside Road. The Bald Range Creek Wildfire status remains out of control and residents should be prepared in the event conditions should change.

Westside Road has reopened to single lane alternating traffic between Secret Cove and Bella Vista Estates. For more information visit DriveBC.ca.

BC Hydro has restored a partial return of power. For more information visit BC Hydro.

With the rescinding of the Evacuation Alerts for the Bald Range Creek Wildfire the EOC is no longer activated and operating. The Centre remains on standby and will be re-activated should another emergency require support and coordination.

During an EOC activation, information will be posted at cordemergency.ca. Residents are urged to sign up to receive email updates by clicking on the Subscribe to Emergency Notifications.

The Bald Range Creek wildfire on the Westside remains active with several properties still on Evacuation Alert.

Westside Road between Main Street and Deighton Road remains closed until further notice. An assessment is underway to determine when it will be safe to reopen the road.

The wildfire sparked into life around 7 p.m. Monday. There were strong winds in the area with the smoke being blown upwards and away from the lake.

The heavy, white smoke was visible from various parts of the city.

BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) were quick to respond with several aircraft actioning the blaze.

As of Monday night BCWS said the fire was measured at just over four hectares.

BC Hydro had restored partial power to some areas impacted by the wildfire, but about 1,377 customers in Fintry and Killiney Beach are still without power.

An Evacuation Alert is in effect for 18 properties on Westside Road (from 3985 to 4069).

Residents in this zone should be on high alert and prepared to evacuate at short notice.

Central Okanagan Emergency Services said they should be prepared to be away from their home for an extended period, make arrangements for pets and pack essential items such as medicines and important documents.

BC Wildfire Service and Wilson’s Landing fire crews were patrolling the roadway.

For updates on the road closure status, residents and travelers should check DriveBC.ca.