Muhammad Aman Ullah
Published: August 3, 2026
Calgary: Wildfires burning across British Columbia have intensified dramatically, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes as emergency officials battle multiple fast-moving fires fueled by extreme heat, dry conditions, and powerful winds.
Authorities say the Bradley Creek wildfire in North Okanagan more than doubled in size within 24 hours, prompting evacuation orders for several communities and raising concerns that fire conditions could worsen before weather conditions improve.
More Than 5,000 People Affected
British Columbia Director of Wildfire Operations Cliff Chapman said more than 5,000 people have been affected by evacuation orders and alerts across the province over the past day.
He described the current wildfire activity as highly unusual, noting that extreme weather conditions have made firefighting operations significantly more difficult.
Bradley Creek Fire Expands Rapidly
According to the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), the Bradley Creek wildfire has grown from approximately 10 square kilometres to 26 square kilometres.
Officials said sustained winds of up to 80 km/h, with gusts reaching 115 km/h in higher elevations, have accelerated the fire’s spread in multiple directions.
Evacuation Orders Issued
Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for residents in several areas, including:
- Okanagan Indian Band
- Spallumcheen Township
- Splatsin First Nation
In the City of Armstrong, 15 properties remain under evacuation alert, while the Columbia Shuswap Regional District has issued alerts affecting approximately 217 properties, impacting around 500 residents.
Quilpituk Creek Fire Also Growing
A second major wildfire, the Quilpituk Creek Fire, discovered south of Okanagan Lake over the weekend, continues to spread rapidly.
Authorities have expanded evacuation orders in nearby communities as fire activity increases.
Combined, the Bradley Creek and Quilpituk Creek fires have placed at least 81 properties under mandatory evacuation orders.
Residents have been instructed to leave the area using Westside Road, where conditions remain safest.
Highway Closures Disrupt Travel
Several major highways have been closed because of wildfire activity.
According to DriveBC, portions of Highway 97 along the western shore of Okanagan Lake remain closed, causing significant travel disruptions throughout the region.
Dozens of New Fires Reported
The BC Wildfire Service reported 31 new wildfires across British Columbia during the past 24 hours, while firefighters successfully contained nine existing fires.
Provincial emergency officials said that by Sunday morning:
- 42 evacuation orders were in effect, impacting approximately 4,000 properties.
- 40 evacuation alerts covered an additional 4,500 properties.
Other Regions Under Threat
In the East Kootenay region, the Wait Creek Fire is threatening nearly 1,000 properties, forcing evacuations of homes, campgrounds, and recreational areas.
An emergency reception centre has been established in Cranbrook to assist displaced residents.
Meanwhile, the Pear Lake Fire, part of the Big Bar Complex, has expanded to approximately 1,039 square kilometres, making it the largest active wildfire currently burning in British Columbia.
Cooler Weather May Provide Relief
The BC Wildfire Service says slightly cooler temperatures, higher humidity, and lighter winds forecast over the coming days may help slow fire growth.
However, officials warn that forests remain extremely dry after prolonged drought conditions, meaning even a small spark could ignite new wildfires.
Residents are being urged to follow evacuation orders immediately and continue monitoring official emergency updates as firefighting operations continue across the province.
