SUMMERLAND, British Columbia — Thousands of residents have been evacuated from communities in British Columbia as fast-moving wildfires spread across the province, prompting emergency authorities to expand evacuation orders and the federal government to provide additional support.
About 22,000 people were under evacuation orders as of Sunday, according to provincial authorities cited by Canadian media, with more residents placed on evacuation alert as firefighters battled more than 100 active fires. Nearly half of those fires were classified as out of control.
The Bald Range wildfire near Summerland in British Columbia's Okanagan region has been among the most rapidly expanding fires. Authorities ordered the evacuation of Summerland and nearby areas after the blaze grew rapidly, with the fire covering more than 100 square kilometres according to reports on Sunday.
Fire crews have been using helicopters and other aircraft to attack the blaze, while smoke and difficult conditions have complicated firefighting operations. Canadian authorities have also reported damage to homes and other property in areas affected by the fires.
British Columbia Premier David Eby declared a provincial state of emergency as fire activity intensified. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police were also investigating a possible death near Summerland, although authorities had not confirmed the circumstances or identified the person.
The federal government said it would assist British Columbia with the emergency response, including support for shelter and accommodation for people displaced by the fires. Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski said federal officials were coordinating with provincial authorities and other response agencies.
The fires have spread amid hot, dry conditions and strong winds that have accelerated fire growth in parts of the province. Canada's federal wildfire outlook had already identified southern interior British Columbia as an area facing higher-than-normal fire danger in August.
As of Monday, the Bald Range fire remained out of control, although authorities said its advance had slowed. Evacuation orders and alerts remained in effect in affected areas as firefighters continued efforts to contain the blaze.
