Planned Pile Burns to Cause Visible Smoke in Okanagan Areas

November 4 2025 - Residents in Vernon, Coldstream, Lake Country, and surrounding communities may notice smoke and flames over the coming days and months due to scheduled pile-burning operations by the BC Wildfire Service.

 Pile burning for wildfire risk reduction is already underway near Spion Kop

In the North Okanagan, four piles of wood debris are set to be burned at the Bailey Road Seed Orchard, about 13 km south of Vernon. Smoke could be visible from Vernon, Coldstream, Predator Ridge, and along Bailey Road and Highway 97.

Operations will only go ahead if weather allows for proper smoke dispersal, though some lingering smoke is possible afterward.

In Lake Country, pile burning for wildfire risk reduction is already underway near Spion Kop on the southeast side, between The Lakes neighbourhood and Highway 97.

Additional burns in the area may occur as early as November 3, 2025, and continue through the coming months, depending on site, weather, venting, and snow conditions.

Smoke and flames may be seen in various Lake Country neighbourhoods and by motorists on Highway 97.

These controlled burns target accumulations of fuels like dead wood and brush. The BC Wildfire Service will prepare, monitor, and manage the fires.

For current prescribed fire updates, visit www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status.

If unsure whether smoke is from a prescribed burn, don’t hesitate to call authorities—dial 911 for emergencies or *5555 to report potential wildfires.

Questions can be directed to BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca.