Report reveals how 2023 Okanagan wildfires spread and impacted homes

A new report on the 2023 Central Okanagan wildfires explains how the fires spread and why some homes were damaged while others were not. The fires, which began in August, burned over 15,000 hectares and caused nearly $500 million in insured losses. The report highlights that airborne embers, rather than direct flames, primarily ignited homes. It assessed 21 damaged homes and found that those with nearby flammable vegetation and certain construction materials were more likely to catch fire. West Kelowna's fire chief noted that the community must adapt to the reality of wildfires. The fire department is promoting FireSmart practices and plans to propose regulations to improve wildfire resilience in the area.