Drought Hill wildfire/BCWS

By Vernon Matters Staff

Peachland wildfire

Drought Hill wildfire remains out of control as crews battle heat, steep terrain

Jul 31, 2025 | 11:49 AM

A wildfire burning between Peachland and West Kelowna remained out of control Thursday as crews contend with scorching heat and steep, unstable terrain.

The fire sits between Highway 97 and Highway 97C.

Thirty-five BC Wildfire Service firefighters and members of the Peachland Fire Department are on scene, targeting hotspots. Additional skimmer aircraft have joined the aerial attack, collecting water from Okanagan Lake.

Officials say the fire is displaying rank 2 behaviour — a surface fire with visible flames and a slow to moderate rate of spread. Aerial drops of water and retardant helped cool activity Wednesday, but hotter conditions Thursday are increasing the potential for more aggressive fire behaviour.

Aerial mapping is underway to determine updated size and spread, with revised figures expected Thursday afternoon.

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Late Wednesday, 225 more properties went on evacuation alert, adding to the 400 already under evacuation order. Emergency officials urge residents under alert to be ready to leave without warning and to prepare for several days away from home.

Highway 97 remains open with single-lane alternating traffic while The Okanagan Connector (Highway 97C) reopened following a temporary closure, Wednesday. Drivers are asked to check drivebc.ca for current conditions.

Boaters on Okanagan Lake are asked to avoid areas where firefighting aircraft operate. The public is also urged to stay clear of all wildfire response efforts to ensure the safety of crews.

For evacuation updates, visit cordemergency.ca.