Vancouver rundown for Thursday, July 25, 2024. Some ranchers in the BC interior are furious
with the BC Wampire Service as that monster blaze east of Spencer's 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 some rangeland. It's believed the fire was caused by lightning back on July 12.
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% 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 Center
over the next three days. Film crews will be taking over Harbor Green Park through Saturday.
Users of the seawall are advised to use caution and obey all signs around coal harbor.
Anger is growing in some circles over Vancouver's decision to reverse its ban on natural gas heating
in new home construction. Counselor 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 right now. Thursday will have
possible showers with highs in the low 20s, sunshine and a few cloudy periods. That is what is
expected right through the weekend. For all the details on these Vancouver area stories,
along with the links, go to vancouverrundown.substack.com.