New fire forces evac alert

Photo: Contributed

Twenty-one properties near Darke Lake Valley have been placed on an evacuation alert.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen issued the alert due to the threat of the Darke Creek wildfire north of Faulder in Electoral Area F.

"Because of the potential danger to life, health, and property damage, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen(RDOS) has issued an evacuation alert for the lands indicated in the attached mapped area which include 21 properties and Darke Lake Provincial Park," stated the RDOS in a release to media. 

Photo: Contributed

"The RDOS is aware that residents in this area were put on Evacuation Alert exactly one month ago due to the Mount Eneas fire. We can appreciate how the high activity of wildfires and the amount of smoke in the area can make residents feel uneasy. We want to thank all residents for preparations and patience during this time. The RDOS has been in communication with BC wildfire Services and crews are responding to the area immediately."

Two new fires have been sparked in the area in the past 24 hours. 

The evacuation alert was issued due to the four-hectare Darke Creek fire. 

BC Wildfire Service is actioning the fire with both tankers and helicopters. The fire is listed as "out of control."

"A new 4 ha. fire near Darke Creek is currently burning ~15 km northwest of Summerland and seven km north of the Princeton-Summerland highway. We are responding with six ground personnel, airtankers and two helicopters. More updates will be provided as they become available," stated the BCWS on Twitter.

The second fire is considered a spot fire and is at the south end of Darke Lake.