The emergency directive that prohibited individuals from reserving accommodations in areas of British Columbia devastated by wildfires will be lifted at midnight, except for West Kelowna, as indicated by the Minister of Emergency Management.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Bowinn Ma acknowledged that the order had achieved its intended outcome, making available numerous vacancies for evacuees and emergency personnel. The directive will no longer be applicable in Kelowna, Kamloops, Oliver, Osoyoos, Penticton, and Vernon.
Ma expressed gratitude to those who adhered to advice and directives, particularly recognizing the tourism sector for their understanding and empathy. She acknowledged that such travel restrictions affect their professions and livelihoods.
Introduced on Saturday, the order restricted bookings in hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, hostels, RV parks, and campgrounds. Notably, short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo were exempt.
While the order continues to apply solely to West Kelowna and does not constitute a travel ban, Ma emphasized that the province strongly advises against non-essential travel to Lake Country and the Shuswap.
Ma stressed that this is not the appropriate time for visits, and if you do come, please be mindful that circumstances remain fluid, and adjustments may still be implemented.
Ma also highlighted the potential for complete restriction lifts or new measures, contingent upon the evolving situation as the worst recorded wildfire season persists.
The announcement coincided with Ma, Premier David Eby, and other officials touring severely affected areas in the Okanagan, where nearly 200 homes have been confirmed as damaged or destroyed.
Acknowledging the significant stress and frustration experienced by families displaced from their homes, individuals forced to alter vacation plans, and those directly impacted by losses, Eby described the current period as exceptionally challenging for numerous individuals.
With the province still under a state of emergency, approximately 27,000 people remain displaced from their residences, while thousands more are on evacuation alert.
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