UPDATE:
- A partial downgrade of evacuation orders in the District of Summerland now covers an area east of Highway 97 and the Trout Creek neighborhood west of Highway 97.
- Full reopening of Highway 97 through Summerland for all traffic.
- Evacuation orders are gradually being lifted near significant fires in B.C., including Clinton and Summerland.
- The B.C. Wildfire Service (BCWS) anticipates smoke over the southern part of the province to persist until Sunday.
- An unstable weather pattern could lead to more lightning-induced fires in B.C. on Sunday.
- Highway 97 near Cache Creek reopened partially on Saturday after closure due to the Pear Lake wildfire.
More residents of Summerland, B.C., are allowed to return home as evacuation orders are downgraded to an alert for specific areas.
While returning, residents are advised to stay prepared for immediate evacuation if needed.
Summerland Mayor Doug Holmes mentioned that around 800 properties had their evacuation orders downgraded, totaling approximately 1,200 properties under evacuation alert.
Initially, 5,500 properties in the district were under evacuation orders when the fire started, with damage assessments completed but no exact count of razed properties available.
Summerland Mayor Doug Holmes at a wildfire evacuation center in Penticton, B.C., on Aug. 8. Holmes confirms the downgrading of evacuation orders in the district. (Ben Nelms/CBC)
Holmes expressed hope for allowing more evacuees to return gradually, aiming for a larger number each time.
Art therapy supporting evacuees from the Bald Range wildfire in Penticton.
Highway 97 passing through Summerland is