B.C. Has declared a state of emergency following the rapid spread of the Bald Range wildfire, which has forced thousands to evacuate in the Okanagan region. The blaze, which moved into the area late Friday, has prompted authorities to issue new evacuation orders and activate emergency response protocols.

The fire, now classified as having a “high potential” for new outbreaks, has intensified in recent days, prompting officials to warn of the risks posed to nearby communities. Local leaders, including the mayor of Summerland, have expressed concerns over the difficulty of assessing the full impact of the fire, as the situation continues to evolve.

Emergency services are working to contain the fire while ensuring the safety of residents. Evacuation orders have been issued for multiple areas, with some residents still in the process of leaving their homes. The province remains on high alert as the wildfire continues to pose a significant threat to the region.