Update 2023-08-23 (4): Evacuation orders in the Kelowna and West Kelowna areas are expected to be lifted gradually on Wednesday (23 August) and over the coming days. In the two cities, more than 200 buildings were destroyed by the fires.
Update 2023-08-23 (3): On Wednesday (23 August), air traffic at Kelowna Airport is once again suspended. This is to apply until at least 9 pm (local time).
Update 2023-08-23 (2): Rainfall and thunderstorms have been predicted for the wildfire affected areas in the Shuswap region in southern British Columbia for the night between Tuesday (22 August, local time) and Wednesday (23 August). Rain was also expected in Kelowna. Cooler temperatures were anticipated as well.
Update 2023-08-23 (1): According to reports, the travel restrictions put in place for Kelowna, Kamloops, Oliver, Osoyoos, Penticton, and Vernon was lifted on Wednesday (23 August). As a result, there are no longer restrictions on staying in temporary accommodations (hotels etc.) in these places. Travel restrictions remain in place for West Kelowna, and therefore non-essential travel to West Kelowna is not permitted, nor is staying in temporary accommodations (hotels, hostels, campgrounds, RV parks, etc.) in West Kelowna. Travellers planning trips to British Columbia have been advised to avoid communities affected by the wildfires and heed to evacuation orders and alerts. It has been reported that as of Tuesday evening (22 August, local time), Highway 1 was still closed between Chase and Sorrento due to the wildfires.