Extensive hydro infrastructure damage caused by Bradley Creek wildfire

Aug 2, 2026 | 7:36 PM

The wildfire , measured at 2,600 hectares , and encompassing the entire northern tip of Okanagan Lake was still rated as out of control late Sunday by the BC Wildfire Service.

BC Hydro said early observations indicate extensive damage. To date, BC Hydro has identified well over 100 damaged distribution structures, including power poles and related equipment. Additional damage may be discovered as crews gain further access to the affected area.

All Okanagan Indian Band residents remained under evacuation order because of the fire and many areas to the northwest and northeast remained on evacuation alert.

BC Hydro’s first priority remains supporting wildfire response operations and ensuring the area is safe for firefighting crews. BC Hydro is coordinating closely with BC Wildfire Service and local fire departments, providing any safety-related assistance required and making damaged electrical equipment safe so fire crews can access affected areas and carry out their work.

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On Sunday, crews were working in the Westside Road area to clear roadways, secure damaged electrical equipment and support wildfire response efforts. As access to affected areas improves, crews are also conducting preliminary damage assessments to determine the full extent of the wildfire’s impact on the electrical system. Given the dynamic wildfire situation, further outages remain possible if fire activity, changing conditions or additional damage impacts electrical infrastructure.

Given the extent of the damage identified so far, BC Hydro does not anticipate restoring power to affected customers today. Customers in the Westside Road, Vernon and Spallumcheen areas should be prepared for prolonged outages while crews continue assessments and develop a restoration plan.

Restoration efforts will depend on wildfire activity, weather conditions, site access and the ability for crews to work safely. BC Hydro understands the challenges extended outages create for residents, businesses and communities and appreciates customers’ patience as crews work to assess damage and safely restore service as quickly as possible.

Customers are encouraged to monitor the latest outage information at bchydro.com/outages and follow all evacuation orders and alerts issued by local authorities.

Vernon not directly impacted by fire

Meanwhile, the City of Vernon said it continues to support the response to the Bradley Creek Wildfire alongside emergency partners.

Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) crews continued patrolling high-risk areas monitoring for spot fires and new fire starts. VFR has also deployed crews to provide additional support for wildfire response efforts in Spallumcheen.

There is currently no fire activity within the City of Vernon related to the Bradley Creek Wildfire.

Residents travelling in and around the North Okanagan are encouraged to check DriveBC before heading out to plan their route. Sections of Highway 97 are closed due to wildfire activity, and motorists are asked to avoid Westside Road whenever possible. Keeping these routes clear allows emergency personnel to move efficiently and supports ongoing firefighting efforts.

by Vernon Matters staff

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