Assessment of post-wildfire impacts and recovery options of the West Kelowna McDougall Creek Fire of 2023

This thesis investigates the impacts of post-wildfire conditions and recovery options following the 2023 West Kelowna fires. In August 2023, West Kelowna was hit by one of the largest wildfires in its history, burning an area of 15,076 hectares and requiring the evacuation of over 30,000 residents. West Kelowna, a community with approximately 40,093 residents, is home to over 14,750 households and covers an area of 123.53 square kilometers. Located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Syilx People of the Okanagan Nation, it is the third most populous municipality in the Okanagan and ranks 25th in the Province of British Columbia. West Kelowna is particularly vulnerable to climate change due to its dry and variable climate. Drawing on the cross-disciplinary literature on wildfire risk management, disaster studies and climate change resilience, this research pursues two specific objectives: (1) to assess post-wildfire impacts on residents and community dynamics; and (2) to evaluate the recovery activities currently being implemented, specifically how well they will mitigate future wildfire impacts and contribute to long-term community resilience. This study employed a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis to examine the experiences and perspectives of a long-term community member and wildfire recovery practitioners in West Kelowna affected by the 2023 McDougall Creek Fire. The post-wildfire recovery was a complex, ongoing process shaped by social vulnerability, institutional capacity, and governance constraints. Recovery extended beyond physical rebuilding to include housing instability, displacement, and long-term emotional and financial impacts. Outcomes were uneven across the community, influenced by access to resources, social networks, and housing conditions. Governance systems, while structured in policy, often relied on flexible, relationship-based coordination in practice, revealing gaps in preparedness, accessibility, and equity. Community organizations, informal networks, and volunteer efforts played a critical role in bridging these gaps. Overall, the study highlights that effective recovery depends not only on formal systems but also on strengthening coordination, addressing inequalities, and supporting community-based resilience processes.