health
‘Explosive’ wildfire forces 20,000 people to flee as British Columbia declares state of emergency
Fast-moving fire displaces people in western Canada, burning homes as it races through towns on Okanagan Lake
TL;DR
- British Columbia declared a state of emergency as a wildfire forced over 20,000 people to evacuate communities along Okanagan Lake.
- The entire community of Summerland and parts of Peachland were ordered evacuated.
- The Bald Range wildfire grew rapidly, overwhelming communities with its speed.
- Some residents were trapped and required rescue, with search-and-rescue crews continuing efforts.
- The province's emergency management minister stated the emergency declaration allows for restricted travel and securing accommodations.
- Wildfire conditions across British Columbia are described as 'explosive' due to hot, windy weather and prolonged drought.