Vancouver Rundown Thursday July 25, 2024

Jul 25, 2024

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Summary

Some ranchers in the B.C. Interior are furious with the BC Wildfire Service as the ‘monster blaze’ east of Spences Bridge continues to grow. Half a dozen homes have been destroyed and cattle have been moved due to the Shetland Creek fire. Ranchers say a less than full initial response from crews may have allowed the fire to spread through rangeland. It’s believed the fire was caused by lightning back on July 12th.

Other news…

What’s happened to all the tourists in Kelowna? The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce tells Castanet businesses are worried about a close to 50 per cent drop in bookings in some parts of the Thompson-Okanagan. A perceived threat of wildfires and high hotel prices - especially around Kelowna - are thought to be some of the factors contributing to the higher vacancy rates.

You may want to avoid driving or trying to park west of the Vancouver Convention Centre for the next three days. Film crews will be taking over Harbour Green Park through Saturday. Users of the seawall are advised to use caution and obey all signs around Coal Harbour.

Anger is growing in some circles over Vancouver’s decision to reverse its ban on natural gas heating in new home construction. Councillor Pete Fry says Mayor Ken Sim zoomed back from vacation for the tie-breaking vote that rolls back climate work. Fry believes oil lobbyists from Alberta influenced the vote.

Many are enjoying the cooler weather. Thursday will have possible showers with highs in the low 20s. Sunshine with cloudy periods…that’s what’s expected through the weekend. Here are the latest conditions from our private weather station in Surrey.