Lightning Fire (03:26)

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Emergency operations officials describe a typical fire season. They recall early assessments of the blaze and disbelief it would reach homes. Fire Chief Gerry Zimmerman discusses the effects of wind changes.

Emergency Evacuations (07:06)

Director of Emergency Operations Ron Mattiussi discusses impromptu problem solving skills necessary to clear threatened residences. Kelowna community members describe anticipating the fire.

Okanagan Mountain Forest Fire (06:07)

Kelowna residents explain skepticism regarding the firestorm's reach; Andy Gebert recalls ominous conditions converting their doubts. Emergency Social Services Director Beryl Itani compares community impact with prior disasters; 20,000 people took refuge at the community center.

Media and Resident Support (02:08)

Mayor Walter Gray recalls community efforts and international concerns; the press collaborated to publicize the situation. Reporter Colin Basran relays a story of evacuee generosity.

Responders Under Threat (08:30)

Kelowna firefighters describe seeing homes incinerated; they attempted to put out blazes, but winds thwarted their efforts. Zimmerman recalls the storm rolling over teams in a ravine, igniting residences in front of them.

Devastation and Appreciation (03:10)

Fire Captain Robbie Buchanan describes realizing the firestorm was beyond their control; all felt lucky no one was killed. Captain Shawn O'Reilly discusses community gratitude.

Recovering Community (05:56)

Kelowna residents describes losing homes to fire; Gebert discusses his gratitude for firefighters. Buchanan and Itani explain bonding through tragedy and express appreciation for support. (Credits)

Firefighting Suggestions (02:42)

Mattiussi describes 911 calls from people with creative suggestions for fighting the Kelowna firestorm.

Credits: Firestorm: Out of the Ashes (01:05)

Credits: Firestorm: Out of the Ashes