Lightning threat grows as Okanagan wildfires show explosive behaviour

Officials are warning of a high potential for lightning-caused wildfire starts across the Okanagan in the coming days.

B.C. Wildfire Service says the Bradley Creek fire near Vernon, Bald Range near Summerland and Quilpituk Creek near La Casa are showing explosive behaviour.

Officials say smoke is hurting air quality but also helping suppress some fire activity, while cooler weather could bring rain.

B.C. Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Kelly Greene said it’s an “incredibly difficult time” for people who don’t know if their homes are still standing. She warns, “If an area is still in an evacuation order, do not enter. It’s in an evacuation order for a reason.”