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Wildfires burning in British Columbia force 20,000 to evacuate
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- British Columbia declared a state of emergency after a fast-moving wildfire destroyed homes and forced over 20,000 people to evacuate communities along Okanagan Lake, with dozens rescued by aircraft.
- More than 100 wildfires are burning across the province, nearly half out of control due to hot, windy weather and prolonged drought, prompting warnings of "explosive" fire conditions threatening additional communities.
- The Bald Range wildfire rapidly expanded to over 52 square miles, destroying numerous homes north of Summerland and generating its own weather system and lightning, complicating firefighting efforts.
- Authorities are investigating a possible wildfire-related death near Summerland, but hazardous conditions have delayed confirmation, while search-and-rescue teams continue efforts to locate trapped residents.
- The state of emergency grants the province powers to restrict travel and secure accommodations for evacuees, as major routes like Highway 97 have been closed and thousands flee the advancing fire.
