Some evacuees allowed to return home as B.C. crews battle wildfire near Peachland

Crews are continuing to battle a wildfire near Peachland that triggered evacuations at 325 addresses Thursday.

Emergency officials have allowed some of the evacuees displaced by the wildfire burning near Peachland, B.C., to return home – but they must be ready to leave again on short notice.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan confirmed Friday evening that “a portion” of the evacuation order triggered by the Munro Lake wildfire this week has been downgraded to an evacuation alert.

The full list of properties under evacuation order and alert is available on the RDCO website.

Meanwhile, the wildfire that sparked Thursday has grown to an estimated 220 hectares.

“We’re at the mercy of the weather, we’re doing what we can do,” said Chief Ian Cummings of the Peachland Fire Rescue Service.

“Unfortunately, the wind has been picking up. At this time, it’s pushing away from Peachland, which is very helpful. We are concerned that could change at any time.”

Shae Stearns of the Kamloops Fire Centre explained that, despite cooler temperatures at night, the “fuels are still very dry and still very susceptible to ignition, especially when we’re seeing strong, prevailing winds.”

Related: Full coverage of B.C.’s 2025 wildfire season

The B.C. Wildfire Service suspects the blaze was human-caused. 

Some 325 properties were initially evacuated, with more than 1,100 others put on evacuation alert.

“We are setting up structure protection on some buildings, so we’re just being proactive right now,” said Cummings, while urging residents to be patient.

“It’s a difficult situation. Everyone wants to be back home.”

Dozens of firefighters, along with four helicopters, are battling the blaze, which is located on the south side of Peachland.

Peachland Mayor Patrick Van Minsel said at last report, the fire was “around a few hundred metres away from our water treatment plant, but that’s being secured.”

He said fireguards are being used to protect the plant and he’s confident it will not suffer damage.

“I have full confidence in our firefighters. They’re on it,” Van Minsel said. “Hopefully by the end of the day we have some good news.”

Peachland has had three wildfires this year, including the Drought Hill Wildfire in July.

“We’re not feeling very lucky this year,” said Kirsten Jones of Central Okanagan Emergency Operations.

Meanwhile, those on evacuation alert have been told they should be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.

An online map is available to help people determine if they’re under the evacuation order.

“Gather your family and, if you have room, take a neighbour or someone needing transportation,” the RDCO said in a news release. “Do not use more vehicles than necessary.”

Officials said evacuees should also take critical items such as medicine and wallets – but only if they are “immediately available” – and bring pets in kennels or on leashes.

Residents are also asked to close their doors and windows, and to shut off gas and electrical appliances apart from refrigerators and freezers.

Gates should be latched but not locked, officials said.

Evacuees can register for supports by creating a profile on B.C.’s Emergency Support Services website. Those with immediate needs can report to an in-person muster centre at the Peachland Community Centre.

A public information line is also available at 250-469-8490, or toll-free at 1-877-569-8490.