[REVISION HISTORY]

Wildfire-related power outages and evacuations in BC

Updated 4 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-11 13:02 UTC → 2026-08-11 14:13 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Wildfires in British Columbia have caused widespread power outages and infrastructure damage across several regions. In the East Kootenay region, approximately 18,000 residents between Golden and Canal Flats lost electricity due to wildfire damage to transmission systems, which also led to business closures and communication disruptions in areas like Radium Hot Springs. In response to wildfires such as the Bradley Creek and Pear Lake fires, BC Hydro has begun phased restoration efforts. Crews have repaired damaged poles and lines near Vernon, Clinton, and the Kelly Lake area. While several thousand customers have had service restored, some residents remain without electricity as utility crews continue to assess damage and coordinate with local districts. Recent recovery efforts have seen significant progress. Following damage from both wildfires and a recent windstorm, BC Hydro has restored power to 2,700 customers near Vernon, 500 in the Village of Clinton, and 84 in the Kelly Lake area. Restoration involved replacing approximately 275 damaged poles and several kilometers of line. Despite these efforts, roughly 230 customers near Vernon remain without electricity. As of August 10, the Bradley Creek wildfire complex, which includes the Quilpituk Creek wildfire, is classified as “held” by the BC Wildfire Service. The ~~blaze~~ Quilpituk Creek fire is estimated at 1,291.9 hectares, while the Bradley Creek fire has grown to approximately 2,647.1 hectares. Suppression efforts involve 129 firefighters, 11 helicopters, and 40 pieces of heavy equipment. While ~~officials warn that~~ unsettled weather and gusty winds ~~could increase fire behavior or create~~ pose risks of spot fires, the ~~fire~~ blaze is expected to remain within its current perimeter. ~~Consequently, the~~ Okanagan Indian Band has partially rescinded evacuation orders for areas including Willow Shore Road and parts of Highway 97, allowing some residents to return home. However, a water quality advisory remains in effect for the OKIB water system in these areas. Chief Dan Wilson reported that at least 230 properties were lost.

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