A fire involving a power pole and cedar hedges prompted an emergency response and a power outage for over 3,000 customers in West Kelowna on Sunday, June 21, 2026. West Kelowna Fire Chief Jason Brolund stated that crews were dispatched to the intersection of Dobbin Road and Elliott Road following reports of an explosion, with the blaze appearing to be electrical in nature.
The power outage caused by the downed line affected a broad area of West Kelowna, stretching from Shannon Lake Road to Gellatly Bay, and bordered by Glencoe Road and Majoros Road.
What caused the Westbank fire?
West Kelowna fire officials believe the fire was likely electrical. According to Fire Chief Jason Brolund, the presence of significant electrical infrastructure, including transformers and power poles, at the intersection of Dobbin Road and Elliott Road points to an electrical origin. Firefighters observed a power pole on fire and power lines arcing upon their arrival at the scene.
Status of the fire and power grid
Fire crews remained on-site to monitor the situation while waiting for BC Hydro to secure the area. BC Hydro reported that a downed line caused the outage for 3,044 customers. Because the fire involved electrical components, firefighters were unable to fully extinguish the flames until utility crews could ensure the site was safe. Traffic on Dobbin Road (Highway 97) was reduced to one lane in the northbound direction while emergency personnel worked to contain the fire and protect nearby gas stations.
The proximity of the fire to gas stations highlights why securing the site was the top priority for the West Kelowna Fire Department. Electrical fires near high-traffic intersections present complex challenges, as crews must balance the immediate need to suppress flames with the necessity of waiting for utility providers to de-energize downed lines to prevent further hazards.
What happens next?
Investigation into the exact cause of the electrical failure is expected to follow once the site is fully secured. BC Hydro has dispatched crews to the scene to address the downed line and restore power to the affected customers. Until the infrastructure is repaired and the area is cleared by authorities, traffic congestion in the Westbank area is likely to continue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire in Westbank?
West Kelowna Fire Chief Jason Brolund stated that the fire appears to be electrical in nature, involving a power pole and cedar hedges.
How many people are without power?
BC Hydro reported that 3,044 customers are affected by a power outage resulting from a downed line.
Is the intersection of Dobbin Road and Elliott Road open?
Traffic is currently restricted, with northbound Dobbin Road reduced to one lane and Elliott Road initially blocked to allow emergency crews to work safely.
How have recent local power infrastructure upgrades impacted the reliability of service in your neighborhood?
