Peachland wildfire: 400 properties evacuated, major highways closed – watch video

A rapidly spreading wildfire in British Columbia's Okanagan region has triggered the evacuation of approximately 400 properties. The blaze, suspected to be human-caused, has led to the closure of key transportation routes, including the Okanagan Connector and a portion of Highway 97.

A fast-moving wildfire in British Columbia's Okanagan region has forced the evacuation of around 400 properties and shut down major highways, including the Okanagan Connector (Highway 97C) and a stretch of Highway 97 near Peachland, on Wednesday.As of 4.30 pm PT (5:00 am IST), the blaze had grown to 12 hectares. Officials suspect it was caused by human activity, which includes any fire not started by lightning, CBC news reported.Emergency crews began tactical evacuations earlier in the day, with firefighters knocking on doors to get residents out quickly.

Evacuation centres have been set up at the Peachland Community Centre and West Kelowna's Royal LePage Place.Residents under evacuation alert are being told to be ready to leave at a moment's notice, while those under evacuation orders must leave immediately.More details awaited.(This is a top Google Trends topic.)

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