Wildfire South of Peachland Temporarily Closes Highway 97

A wildfire near Peachland, B.C., forced a temporary closure of Highway 97 as firefighters battled the blaze. The fire, estimated at six hectares, was suspected to be human-caused and located approximately three kilometres south of the town. Ground teams, supported by air operations, along with the Summerland and Peachland fire departments, mobilized to contain the fire near Brent Road.

The BC Wildfire Service responded swiftly to the Brent Road wildfire (K51015), which began as a 0.75-hectare smouldering ground fire with visible flames. This incident, situated on the western side of Highway 97, caused traffic disruption, leading to a single-lane alternation between Renfrew Road and Brent Road south of Peachland.

Originally reported at 9 a.m., the fire prompted the closure of the highway to facilitate firefighting operations. However, thanks to prompt reporting by the public and the usage of the BCWS app to submit photos, the firefighting teams were able to strategize effectively. By noon, the fire had grown in size, intensifying the firefighting efforts.