Wildfire near Summerland, B.C., remains active as residents return

The Bald Range wildfire near Summerland, British Columbia remains active despite the lifting of evacuation orders for most residents. The BC Wildfire Service reported that the blaze showed increased activity overnight, leading to spot fires along the northwestern flank which were contained by crews. However, the wildfire service cautioned that the surrounding fuels are still dry, making the fire unpredictable.

A cold front is expected to pass through the area late Friday, potentially bringing stronger and shifting winds that could exacerbate fire behavior. While over 3,000 properties have been taken off the evacuation list, residents are still under an evacuation alert. The BC Wildfire Service warned that nearby residents may encounter smoldering ground fires and smoke within the blaze's perimeter for the next few weeks, which is common following large wildfires but typically not a concern.

As of the latest tally, the fire has damaged or destroyed 150 structures, with about 110 in the Faulder and Meadow Valley areas and 40 in the District of Summerland. Erick Thompson, a spokesperson for the regional district, stated that residents of Faulder and Meadow Valley have not been cleared to return to inspect damages because crews and equipment are still working in the area.

The Bald Range wildfire is still classified as burning out of control and spans approximately 220 square kilometers, making it one of about 130 active fires across the province.