Vernon firefighters are on scene of a major structure fire in the City’s downtown core this morning. The fire is causing heavy smoke to move across the community.
At approximately 2:30 a.m., Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) was dispatched to a structure fire in the 2800-block of 30th Street. Multiple structures are fully involved and all available fire resources are on scene. Additionally, apparatus and firefighters from the Armstrong Spallumcheen Fire Department are on scene to assist with the response.
Residents in the Kekuli Centre apartments have been evacuated as a precautionary measure. No additional evacuations have been deemed necessary at this time.
The following roads are closed to traffic and pedestrians (see map below):
- 30th Street between 25th Avenue (Highway 6) and 30th Avenue
- 29th Street between 28th and 30th Avenues
- 27A Avenue between Highway 6 and 28th Avenue
Members of the public are asked to stay away from the area to maintain access for emergency responders and for the safety of responders and the public.
Residents across the City may experience smoke entering their homes. If this is the case, you’re encouraged to turn off your air conditioning and close your windows until the smoke can clear the area.
Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, BC Ambulance Service, BC Hydro, FortisBC, and City utilities are also on scene. The City of Vernon has activated its Emergency Operations Centre to assist with the response efforts.
More information will be provided when it becomes available.
Below is a map of the road closure area.
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