British Columbia Declares State of Emergency as Wildfire Forces 20,000 to Evacuate
British Columbia has declared a state of emergency due to the Bald Range wildfire, which has rapidly spread, forcing over 20,000 people to evacuate. The fire, which began on Friday evening, has grown to approximately 50 square kilometers, affecting communities along Okanagan Lake, including Summerland and Peachland. The fire's rapid expansion has overwhelmed local resources, prompting the diversion of firefighting helicopters to rescue trapped residents. Premier David Eby announced the emergency as more than 100 wildfires burn across the province, with nearly half out of control due to hot, windy weather and prolonged drought. The situation remains dynamic, with search-and-rescue operations ongoing to locate any remaining trapped individuals.