British Columbia wildfire forces more than 20,000 to flee, destroys homes

Authorities warn residents to be prepared to leave their homes as fast-moving wildfires spread across western Canada. A wildfire in British Columbia, Canada, has forced more than 20,000 people to evacuate as fast-moving blazes destroyed homes. The Bald Range wildfire has grown rapidly, burning about 9,500 hectares (23,500 acres) and prompting evacuation orders in Summerland, Peachland and other districts west of Okanagan Lake. British Columbia’s Premier David Eby announced a state of emergency early Saturday as more than 100 wildfires burned across the western Canadian province. Nearly half of the fires were out of control amid hot, windy conditions and prolonged drought.

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