B.C. premier declares wildfire state of emergency

B.C. Premier David Eby declared a state of emergency following a rapidly spreading wildfire in the Okanagan region. The Bald Range fire, which began on Friday, has forced thousands of residents to evacuate, marking the largest evacuation event in the province this summer. Over 20,000 people have been displaced, according to provincial emergency officials.

The fire, described by lead commander Dan McGowan as "like a bomb going off in Summerland," has destroyed homes and other properties, with some individuals trapped and requiring rescue efforts. Air evacuations are underway, with 18 firefighting aircraft used to rescue more than 50 people. Premier Eby has spoken with Prime Minister Mark Carney, who pledged full federal support.

The province has activated additional powers under the state of emergency, including securing accommodations and imposing local travel restrictions, though no travel restrictions are currently in place. Highway 97 was closed due to the fire and affected evacuation routes. The BC Wildfire Service warned that conditions in southern British Columbia are extremely volatile, with new wildfires breaking out daily.

There are currently 105 active fires burning across the province, with over 2,000 personnel involved in the response. Emergency Management Minister Kelly Greene urged those under evacuation orders to leave immediately and those under an alert to be prepared to evacuate.