Media coverage of the fires near Kelowna ( Glenrosa, Rose Valley and Fintry) is abit of “Deja Vu” . Once again they have given the impression that there are extensive fires in the Okanagan Valley. Well, it’s a big valley.
The fires themselves are pretty much under control, the skies are clear, the sun is great and while, yes, there was a bit of smoke in the air this morning, it was gone before 10:00 am.
This report on the HelloBC blog pretty much says it all: “While there is a fair amount of smoke in the air there are definitely no fires close to Penticton. The weather is warm, the skies are blue (mostly) and its a great time to be on the beach.
Of course, Highway 97 to Penticton is closed as of July 20 at 2:30pm, but there is talk that it may open by Tuesday. There are alternate routes, however. Just yesterday I took Hwy 5A from Merritt to Princeton and then Hwy 3 and 3A from Princeton to Penticton. Absolutely beautiful drive! Stunning scenery.
Besides Hwy 5A, travelers can take Hwy 33 to Route 201 (well travelled forest service road) directly to Penticton. Another option is to take a southern route to Osoyoos and then follow Hwy 97 north to Penticton.”
Subsequent to the above, Castanet reports that Highway 97 was reopened today (July 21) at 6:00 am).
