On August 18, 2023, the Province of B.C. declared a Provincial State of Emergency to support ongoing response and recovery efforts caused by wildfire. This declaration allows the Province to enact Emergency Orders, including travel restrictions to specific areas as needed.
Travel Restrictions
In a Statement issued Tuesday, August 22nd, Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, announced the Emergency Order restricting non-essential use of temporary accommodations will be lifted effective Wednesday, August 23rd for:
- Kelowna
- Kamloops
- Oliver
- Osoyoos
- Penticton
- Vernon
Restrictions will remain in place for West Kelowna, where non-essential travel for the purpose of staying in temporary accommodation, including hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, hostels, RV parks and campgrounds, remains prohibited.
This restriction will support access to accommodations for evacuees and personnel providing emergency and critical services.
The public is asked to avoid non-essential travel to areas impacted by wildfires. Roadways must remain clear for emergency response operations.
What is essential travel?
Essential travel activities include:
- providing emergency or critical services
- sheltering for evacuees
- travelling for health or medical reasons
- transporting essential goods and supplies
- attending court or complying with a court order
- attending a funeral service
- avoiding the risk of abuse or violence
- exercising parental responsibilities
- moving or assisting with moving to a different principal residence
- carrying out a temporary work-related purpose, including volunteer work
- attending classes or training
- exercising an Aboriginal or treaty right
Links & Resources
For current wildfire evacuation information, visit emergencyinfobc.ca. For wildfire locations and response information, visit BCwildfire.ca.
