The extremes between the hot summers and bone-chilling winters can have an affect on the Okanagan and its ecosystems.

Over the last several years, B.C. filmmakers Nova Ami and Velcrow Ripper have explored and created a documentary titled Incandescence, which is an inside look at how wildfires impact the ecosystem and how communities that have both forest and civilization can protect themselves. 

One of the factors related in the documentary is the extreme differences between dry and wet conditions. This is called hydroclimate whiplash.

Ami and Ripper talk with Indigenous elders, first responders, and local residents, getting their reaction to the ever-changing ecosystem.

The duo also made the film by collaborating with BC Wildfire Service, Rider Ventures, the Animal Lifeline Emergency Response Team, Mennonite Disaster Services, the Okanagan Indian Band Fire Department and more.

It features footage from the White Rock Lake Fire (2021) and McDougall Creek Fire (2023).

Incandescence shows at the Kamloops Film Festival on Friday, March 7, 6:30 p.m.; at the Falkland Community Hall, 6 p.m., on Sunday, March 9; two showings in Vernon, at the Towne Theatre Monday, March 10 at 2:45 and 6:45 p.m; in Kelowna Tuesday, March 11 at the Landmark Grand 10 Cinema, 6:30 p.m. and at the Armstrong Centennial Hall Friday, March 14 at 7 p.m. (limited seating, to reserve email: firesmart@cityofarmstrong.bc.ca).

At all showings, Ami and Ripper will be in attendance for a question and answer period.