Thomas Creek Wildfire – Information
For up to date and accurate information regarding the Thomas Creek Wildfire, please reference these official links.
BC Wildfire Service – Notices
BC Wildfire Service – Interactive Map
RDOS – Emergency Operation Centre
Credit: BC Wildfire Service
Area Restriction for Thomas Creek Wildfire
The BC Wildfire Service has implemented an Area Restriction Order for the vicinity of the Thomas Creek Wildfire. The size of the area restriction reflects the continued need to protect the public in areas where there are ongoing fire suppression activities.
This order will remain in place until noon on October 15, 2021 or until it is rescinded. This order applies to Crown land within the geographic boundaries outlined below and shown on the map provided:
Under this order and Section 11(2) of the Wildfire Act, a person must not remain in or enter the restricted area without the prior written authorization of an official designated for the purposes of the Wildfire Act, unless the person enters the area only in the course of:
• travelling to or from his or her principle residence that is not under an evacuation order;
• travelling to or from private or leased property for the purposes of accessing a secondary residence or recreational property that is not under an evacuation order;
• travelling as a person acting in an official capacity;
• travelling for the purpose of supporting wildfire suppression activities; and
• engaging and/or participating in agricultural activities pertaining to livestock or vineyard management on private or leased property.
Failure to comply with Section 11 restricted area requirements may result in a violation ticket for $1,150.
Notice to Boaters and Pleasure Craft Operators on Skaha Lake:
The RDOS (Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen) requesting the assistance of recreational boaters on Skaha Lake amid the Thomas Creek Wildfire.
Air tankers responding to the wildfire are collecting lake water to support their efforts.
The regional district is requesting that boaters refrain from operating in any portion of the lake where air tankers are refilling and that they always maintain operational awareness and be aware of any air craft in the area.
Notice to Cyclists and Hikers:
Mountain bikers, road cyclists and hikers alike to please avoid all areas within proximity to the fire zones
Mountain bikers and hikers please stay away from Natures Trust and Peach Cliff Trails and please access the other regional trails with caution.
To report a wildfire or irresponsible behaviour that could start a wildfire in British Columbia,
please call 1 800 663-5555 or (*5555 from a cell phone) as soon as possible. Information from the public is crucial to the effectiveness of our response.
Links for more information about fires in general
- EmergencyInfoBC Online source for emergency alerts
- DriveBC Road conditions and closures
- BC Air Quality The Air Quality Health Index is a health protection tool that is designed to help you make decisions to protect your health by limiting short-term exposure to air pollution and adjusting your activity levels during increased levels of air pollution