Raging wildfire near Okanagan Lake in British Columbia kills elderly woman

The wildfire raging near Okanagan Lake in British Columbia’s southern interior has claimed the life of an 80-year-old woman.

Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Penticton say the resident was trying to escape the flames with a family member when she reportedly died suddenly.

Officers learned of the fast-moving wildfire Friday at around 5:15 p.m., and around eight hours later officers learned of a sudden death in the Meadow Valley area.

Around 10,000 homes are under an evacuation order in Summerland, Peachland, parts of Okanagan and on Penticton Indian Band lands.

“This wildfire has been a deeply traumatic event for all those in the region. Our thoughts are with this family, who are now grappling with the loss of their loved one,” says Supt. Beth McAndie, the officer in charge of the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional RCMP Detachment, in a statement. “Officers are working closely and providing full supports to the impacted family, who are asking for privacy at this time.”

Prime Minister Mark Carney posted on X Sunday afternoon, saying the federal government stands ready to help and support the British Columbian government in firefighting efforts.

We’re working with the Government of British Columbia to support people who have been forced from their homes and communities across the province.

To everyone impacted by these wildfires, and to the brave firefighters and first responders on the front lines: Canada is with you. https://t.co/8d7p4gUg41

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) August 9, 2026

Carney thanked the brave firefighters and first responders working tirelessly to keep people safe, and says he is keeping everyone forced from their homes in his thoughts.

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