EOC Update: Nk’Mip Creek, Thomas Creek and Brenda Creek wildfire status

News Article
Published: July 21, 2021

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Operations Centre (RDOS EOC) continues to work with BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) to monitor the Nk’Mip Creek, Thomas Creek and Brenda Creek wildfires.

Nk’Mip Creek

  • Evacuation Orders and Evacuation Alerts remain in effect.
  • The Oliver Landfill is closed until further notice. Osoyoos Landfill (located at 17250 146 Avenue, Osoyoos) will be accepting  materials from Electoral Area C and Town of Oliver at the Osoyoos landfill rates, until the Oliver Landfill reopens.
  • Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) members are encouraged to follow local community Facebook pages for updates.  
  • Boaters and pleasure craft operators are reminded to avoid Osoyoos Lake to allow air crews to conduct operations safely. 

Emerging wildfire on Richter Pass  

  • RDOS is monitoring along with BC Wildfire Services
  • Check DriveBC for updates if you are travelling in the area
  • BCWS and Keremeos Volunteer Fire Department responding 

Thomas Creek

Evacuation Alert remains in effect for 704 properties. The Okanagan Falls boat launch remains closed until further notice in order to assist with BCWS operations. A Provincial Area Restriction notice is in effect.

  • Boaters and pleasure craft operators are reminded to avoid Skaha Lake and Vaseux Lake to allow air crews to conduct operations safely.

Brenda Creek

Evacuation Order remains in effect for 42 parcels. The RDOS continues to monitor the situation and work with BCWS, Central Okanagan Regional District and Thompson Nicola Regional District.

Please avoid camping or recreational activities near the area. A Provincial Area Restriction notice is in effect. 

Issued by Director of EOC 

Depending on the severity of the situation, an evacuation alert or order may be issued. It’s important to understand the different stages. Residents and visitors will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to evacuation; however, you may receive limited notice due to changing conditions. 

To be ready, know your hazards and follow PreparedBC’s guides to prepare yourself, your family, home or business in case an evacuation is ordered. Health Evacuation Guidelines for COVID-19 have been developed by Emergency Management BC. 

Please visit the RDOS EOC website for resource links and information updates: https://emergency.rdos.bc.ca/resources/ 

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO WHEN AN EVACUATION ALERT IS ISSUED 

Upon notification of an ALERT, you should be prepared for the Evacuation Order: 

Locate all family members and designate a meeting area outside the evacuation area, should an Evacuation Order be called while separated. 

  • Take critical items only if they are immediately available:
    • government-issued ID
    • medications
    • eyeglasses
    • valuable papers (e.g. insurance, credit, and mortgage information)
    • immediate care needs for dependents 
  • Prepare to move persons with mobility concerns, children and/or neighbors, if assistance is needed.
  • If you identify as having extraordinary needs, call RDOS EOC for assistance: 250-490-4225
  • Prepare to take pets with you and move livestock to a safe area (if possible).
  • For pet owners and hobby farmers with concerns for their animals

Animal Emergency Response Team (ALERT) can help: 250-809-7152 or email info@alertcanada.org

  • Farmers who require assistance, please contact RDOS EOC.
  • Arrange transportation for all your household members.
  • Fill the gas tanks of personal vehicles. 
  • If transportation assistance is needed, contact RDOS EOC.
  • Please store your Firearms in accordance with Section 118 of the Firearms Act.
  • Arrange accommodation for all members of the residence, if possible.
  • Wait for an Evacuation Order to be issued before evacuating.
  • Monitor news sources including CivicReady. 
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