INFORMATION RELEASE 

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Operations Centre (RDOS EOC) continues to monitor the Sinlahekin Wildfire, which is currently burning approximately 15 kilometres south of the Canada-United States border.

With extreme fire danger ratings and elevated temperatures forecast throughout the week, emergency management partners continue to monitor conditions and participate in ongoing cross-border coordination activities.

The RDOS remains in communication with BC Wildfire Service (Penticton Fire Zone), Town of Osoyoos, Lower Similkameen Indian Band (LSIB), and Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB).

Preparedness is one of the most important steps residents can take during wildfire season.

There are currently no evacuation alerts or orders in effect within the RDOS related to this wildfire. However, residents and property owners in Chopaka and Nighthawk (Electoral Area “B”) should review their emergency preparedness plans and be prepared to take action if conditions change.

Reviewing your emergency plan now can help ensure you are prepared to respond quickly if an Evacuation Alert or Evacuation Order becomes necessary.

Evacuation Alert: This is the time to get prepared to leave your home on short notice.

Evacuation Order: You must leave the area immediately.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Review household emergency and evacuation plans.
• Ensure emergency kits are ready and accessible.
• Prepare important documents, medications, and essential supplies.
• Make arrangements for family members, pets, livestock, and transportation needs.
• Stay informed through official emergency information channels.

Some areas near the border are accessed by a single roadway, which may limit evacuation options during an emergency. Residents should familiarize themselves with their primary evacuation route and be prepared to leave promptly if directed by emergency officials.

Visitors to the area are also encouraged to stay informed and be ready to leave if conditions change.

The RDOS EOC and partner agencies will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as required.

For current wildfire information, visit BCWildfire.ca or download the app.

Voyent Alert! notifications
Click here to register for routine and emergency notifications via email, text, or telephone.
You can find a link to Voyent Alert! on the RDOS website at rdos.bc.ca.

For the latest updates on Evacuation ALERTS and ORDERS, please visit rdos.bc.ca. 

For further information, please call the EOC at 250-490-4225. In the case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Issued by EOC Director