Peachland wildfire: 400 properties evacuated, major highways closed – watch video
A fast-moving wildfire in British Columbia’s Okanagan region has forced the evacuation of around 400 properties and shut down major highways, including the Okanagan Connector (Highway 97C) and a stretch of Highway 97 near Peachland, on Wednesday.As of 4.30 pm PT (5:00 am IST), the blaze had grown to 12 hectares. Officials suspect it was caused by human activity, which includes any fire not started by lightning, CBC news reported.Emergency crews began tactical evacuations earlier in the day, with firefighters knocking on doors to get residents out quickly.Evacuation centres have been set up at the Peachland Community Centre and West Kelowna’s Royal LePage Place.Residents under evacuation alert are being told to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice, while those under evacuation orders must leave immediately.More details awaited.(This is a top Google Trends topic.)
