Smoke from Boston Bar Wildfire Drifts into North Okanagan

July 4 2026 - Residents across the North Okanagan are asking “Where is this smoke coming from?” as the smell of wildfire smoke became noticeable in many areas Saturday afternoon.

Wildfire drifting eastward, directly impacting the Okanagan and Shuswap valleys

The smoke is so noticable some fire departments have even received calls from concerned residents reporting smoke in their neighbourhoods.

In Coldstream and Vernon, the smoke is not at a level to trigger a formal health warning, but it is strong enough to cause eye and throat irritation for many.

The source of the smoke is a wildfire burning over 150 kilometres away, and it's expected to increase Sunday.

The Brunswick Creek wildfire (V10742), currently burning out of control north of Boston Bar in the Fraser Canyon is the source. The fire, believed to be human-caused, has grown to roughly 14 hectares.

The Brunswick Creek Wildfire is Currently Out of Control

An evacuation alert remains in place for a small number of properties near Chaumox Road.

BC Wildfire Service crews, along with the Boston Bar Fire Department, are on scene with helicopters and heavy equipment.

The latest smoke forecast from FireSmoke.ca shows clear plumes drifting eastward, directly impacting the Okanagan and Shuswap valleys.

The animation on the site illustrates how smoke from the Boston Bar area is being carried into the region.

Those with respiratory issues should limit outdoor time and keep windows closed.

Smoke from Boston Bar Wildfire Drifts into North Okanagan