Interesting article on previous burn scars not being much help...........

 https://www.castanet.net/news/Vernon/626846/Burn-scars-from-previous-fires-along-Westside-Road-might-not-be-much-help-this-fire-season#626846

Neighbourhood Watch

I received a message this afternoon regarding an unfamiliar vehicle parked in an unusual place with two occupants. I went up and the vehicle was empty - I took a photo with the plate. I looked around the nearby cabins and did not see any activity.

Hopefully it was people heading out for a hike, and just parking/changing in an odd place.

New Fire - labelled Sidley Meadow

I do not know if this is a new spot, or arising from a recent fire in that area. 

Update from BCWS

 BC Wildfire Service

 

t͏o͏o͏S͏s͏d͏p͏e͏r͏n͏7͏t͏6͏t͏g͏f͏9͏9͏i͏a͏l͏0͏a͏8͏4͏6͏1͏2͏1͏m͏2͏8͏7͏i͏2͏u͏5͏h͏h͏t͏g͏m͏0͏f͏8͏1͏l͏i͏1͏3͏m͏m͏f͏h͏2͏9͏0͏8͏1͏g͏ ·

Over the last 24 hours, British Columbia experienced a dynamic weather event. This resulted in erratic wind with gusts up to 80 kilometres per hour in the Okanagan region, which quickly changed directions. This resulted in aggressive fire behaviour that challenged containment on multiple new and existing wildfires.

Across the province, we received over 2200+ lightnings strikes, with 22 suspected lightning-caused wildfires starting in the last 24 hours. Of these, 12 have been classified as Out, Under Control or Being Held, and 10 remain classified as Out of Control.

Through next week, conditions are expected to return to hot, dry and windy, increasing the potential for fire activity. Lightning from this weekend may holdover for multiple days without showing signs of smoke until hot and dry conditions return. If you see a wildfire, please report it to 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cellphone or through the BC Wildfire Service Mobile App and utilize the “Report a Fire” function, attaching a photo with your report.

This wildfire situation remains dynamic. With all response, responder safety and protection of critical infrastructure, life and property continue to be the priority for all agencies.

We extend our gratitude to all our partners through response, from local governments, First Nations, industry, contractors and structure protection agencies.

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Fortunate here.............

It is cool and clean air this morning. Too many scary stories to post.

Our thoughts are with our friends south of the border. Aggressive fire, many places - North Okanagan, catastrophic structure loss in Spokane, and just hoping the fields adjacent to our snowshoe guide's home are green, and that their sprinklers and metal roof protect their home. 

Smoke not coming from the BBQ...........

 

Use the BC Wildfire App

 

Environment Canada - Heads up

Weather Alerts for: South Okanagan - including Penticton

Special Weather Statement

4:56 AM PDT Saturday 1 August 2026

Strong southwest winds gusting to 70 to 80 km/h are expected this afternoon and evening over the southern Interior of British Columbia. Local terrain may cause wind speeds and directions to vary from place to place. Winds will ease later this evening. Secure loose objects. If outside, protect yourself from flying or falling debris. Boaters, paddlers, and people participating activities on water should exercise caution and prioritize safety. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@ec.gc.ca or post reports on social media using #BCStorm.

In effect for:

• South Okanagan - including Penticton

Photo: Environment Canada

Strong winds expected in areas outlined by blue, air quality

warnings in effect in orange and yellow shaded areas.

Area in blue with gusty winds looks to exclude us, but it

could definitely fan anything that starts below us.

Recent wind gusts have brought down trees in the 2021 burn and in 

other areas, across the road.

Filming today on Manuel's Flats

The signs are out, and there is traffic control. I was directed to proceed slowly - the guy setting up the camera was right on the edge of the pavement and seemingly unaware of traffic. 

Saturday

Barbeque is 11:00 to 4:00

Check out the Artisan Market.