Wildfires are burning everywhere throughout B.C., with evacuation orders urging residents out of their homes to flee the incoming flames. Alongside that, one popular B.C. resort has been forced to close indefinitely as a massive blaze burns nearby.
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The Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa (SWR) recently announced that it will be shutting down in response to the Bald Range Wildfire.
Wildfires Shutting Down B.C. Businesses
Bald Range Wildfire
The Bald Range wildfire was first discovered on August 7, 2026, and has since exploded to a huge 18,450 affected hectares. As of publication, this wildfire is out of control, meaning that it is “spreading or it is anticipated to spread beyond the current perimeter, or control line.”
A recent update from BC Wildfire Service notes that “winds are mostly expected from the north. Tomorrow afternoon, there is a chance of thunderstorm activity. Convective instability associated with thunderstorms could produce downdrafts and erratic winds, potentially increasing fire behaviour; however, this is not guaranteed.”
A total of 7 evacuation alerts and 11 evacuation orders are active for the area, which includes SWR.
Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa Closure
As SWR was in the evacuation order area, staff and guests were required to evacuate the affected area.
“In response to the wildfire evacuation order on the evening of Friday, August 7th, our team acted quickly and with tremendous care , safely evacuating and supporting every guest on property,” writes SWR. “We are deeply proud of how they showed up in an incredibly difficult moment.”
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The resort is expected to remain closed until it is safe to return. For those who have existing reservations, the resort says that “no one will be penalized for changes related to this evacuation.”
For those with reservations, they will be honoured throughout the closure period. This is either through a full refund or a rescheduled stay, at the guest’s preference.
For more information on the closure, you can visit SWR’s website here.
