B.C. Wildfires Trigger State of Emergency and Mass Evacuations
British Columbia declared a provincial state of emergency Saturday after the Bald Range wildfire near Summerland expanded rapidly, forcing widespread evacuations and disrupting transportation across the Okanagan and other affected regions.
Nearly 22,000 people have been ordered from their homes across the province, while more than 10,000 others remain under evacuation alerts. About 12,000 Summerland residents and thousands from nearby communities are displaced as alerts extend toward Penticton, Peachland and Highway 97C. Many evacuees are seeking assistance in Penticton, where officials say accommodation is limited.
The fire grew from 103 to 136 square kilometres by Sunday and displayed Rank 5 and Rank 6 behaviour, the highest levels on British Columbia’s wildfire scale. Officials reported rapid spread and embers travelling up to one kilometre ahead of the main fire, making direct ground attacks unsafe. Firefighters are focusing on control lines, structure protection and search and rescue operations.
Premier David Eby said homes have been lost, although the number remains unknown. The RCMP is also investigating a possible fatality northwest of Summerland. Federal assistance has been approved to help provide accommodation for evacuees.
More than 100 wildfires are burning in British Columbia. The Ainslie Creek fire east of Boston Bar continues to expand, while the Bradley Creek fire is classified as being held. Thousands remain evacuated because of fires near the north end of Okanagan Lake. The Pear Lake wildfire, which prompted evacuations in Clinton and 70 Mile House, has reached 1,429 square kilometres.
Several major roads remain closed, including sections of Highways 97, 1 and Westside Road. Kelowna International Airport cancelled 14 flights Sunday and delayed four others. Forecast thunderstorms may bring additional dry lightning, raising concern about new fire starts and further pressure on emergency services. Regional conditions remain highly volatile.