Princeton, BC (Richa Walia): A rapidly spreading wildfire near Princeton has been declared “out-of-control” by the BC Wildfire Service, prompting an evacuation order for residents in the surrounding area.
Dubbed the August Lake wildfire, the blaze has grown to approximately 14 hectares and is burning dangerously close to the Princeton Golf Club. The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) has issued an evacuation order for select areas, while others have been placed on evacuation alert.
The BC Wildfire Service reports that around 40 firefighters and three helicopters are actively working to contain the fire, which is currently exhibiting rank one to two behaviour, indicating visible surface flames and slow spreading under current conditions.
Despite the lower rank classification, the fire’s proximity to populated zones and recreational facilities has raised significant concern. Officials are urging residents in the affected areas to comply immediately with evacuation instructions and to remain alert for further updates.
“While the fire is not yet exhibiting highly aggressive behaviour, its location and current growth warrant urgent attention and action,” the BC Wildfire Service said in an official update.
Meanwhile, a separate wildfire burning near Cathedral Provincial Park, southwest of Keremeos, known as the Young Creek wildfire, has been classified as “being held.” This means the fire is not expected to grow beyond its current boundaries under prevailing weather conditions and with current suppression efforts.
Authorities are reminding the public to avoid the wildfire zones and to report any signs of new fire activity. Evacuation centres have been set up for displaced residents, and additional firefighting resources remain on standby in the region.
As wildfire season intensifies across British Columbia, officials are calling on residents to remain prepared and to follow all public safety advisories.
