Bald Range WildFire update: GWB

Hi all, so it is Monday already (again) and GWB remains on evacuation alert. There are no new updates for GWB from BC Wildfire (which is a good thing). The wildfire is at its farthest from GWB since this event began, according to the online maps. BC Wildfire, PIB, Guardians, City of Penticton Fire Department, along with international firefighters (muchas gracias, bomberos) have been working exceptionally hard on the southern flank of the fire and GWB is directly benefiting from their efforts – saying thank you doesn't seem like enough when I know we are all eternally grateful.

Highway 97 is fully open (check DriveBC for the latest). You have heard that many Summerlanders are returning home, which is amazing for them and relieving some pressure on Penticton's evacuation reception and comfort centres. The fire on the Summerland Landfill is a significant concern.

Faulder, a community within Area F and west of Summerland, was hit incredibly hard. I have been listening to the most heartbreaking experiences from our neighbours who lived through and continue to be impacted by this nightmare like no other. If you are able or interested in donating, the SOS Community Foundation has a fund set up (cfso.net). There are several drop-off locations for donations in Penticton. New items (toiletries) are preferred but check the website for more info on that.

We are not out of the woods yet but, at this moment, can take a bit of a breath. The weather has been working in our favour and hopefully will continue to do so. If I hear of any other updates, I will let you know.  Watch the weather and check the maps.

I am a huge fan of the mountain goats north of Summerland. Each time I see them on my way to Kelowna, I feel super lucky. I was very relieved that when Highway 97 re-opened (Aug. 13), new photos of the goats were posted. When the wildfire reignited beside Highway 97, north of Summerland, on Friday night (Aug. 14), I was quite worried as the wildfire had already impacted their space. But they are still there (the closest to Summerland that I have ever seen them). Here is a very poor photo (squint your eyes and look in the top-left corner of the image) I took of the goats on Saturday, August 15.

Thank you for all your efforts in getting ready to evacuate.  The community took the alert to heart which is the perfect response. Again, GWB remains on evac alert.

2026 08 15 - Mountain Goats just north of Summerland

Take care of yourselves and each other. If you have any questions, reach out any time. 250-488-0246 and rgettens@rdos.bc.ca