Final Smith Creek fire evacuees going home

WEST KELOWNA – Almost one week after it started, the last residents forced out by the Smith Creek fire are going home.

The evacuation order has been rescinded for the final inhabited property on Dixie Rd. as of 1 p.m. today.

A local state of emergency continues in West Kelowna and the fire remains active. The order remains in effect for seven uninhabited properties directly above Smith Creek, Tallus Ridge and Shannon Woods neighbourhoods.

Approximately 1,100 homes are still on evacuation alert and residents in those areas should be prepared to leave with minimal notice.

Parks, trails and public land within the evacuation order are still closed and a post-wildfire assessment is being conducted to assess the impact expected heavy rains could have. The concern is that a lengthy period of rain could cause erosion or debris flows.

The Smith Creek fire is still estimated to be 280 hectares and 60 per cent contained.

The latest information and maps of affected areas are available at the CORD website or by calling 250-469-8490.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Adam Proskiw at aproskiw@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-0428. To contact the editor, email mjones@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-2724.