British Columbia has declared a province-wide state of emergency after a fast-moving wildfire forced more than 20,000 people to evacuate overnight, with officials reporting that strong winds caused the flames to spread rapidly and significant challenges remaining in bringing the blaze under control.

The Bald Range wildfire, first reported Friday evening near Summerland in the South Okanagan region, grew explosively overnight, roughly doubling in size to about 9,500 hectares (23,500 acres) and remaining out of control as of Saturday. The entire District of Summerland, home to approximately 12,000 residents, was ordered to evacuate late Friday night, along with roughly 8,000 people in and around nearby Peachland and surrounding areas west of Okanagan Lake.

Provincial figures indicate roughly 21,700 people have been displaced across British Columbia, with an additional 9,700 under evacuation alert. More than 100 wildfires are currently burning in the province, nearly half of them out of control amid hot, windy weather and prolonged drought. Officials described conditions as “explosive,” with the fire racing toward communities along Okanagan Lake at extraordinary speed.

Premier David Eby confirmed significant losses of homes and property, though the full extent of damage could not yet be assessed because the area remains an active fire zone. Some residents became trapped as conditions changed quickly and required rescue; more than 50 people were airlifted to safety by firefighting aircraft. Sections of Highway 97 were closed between Peachland and Penticton as roads filled with evacuees heading to reception centres.

Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Minister Kelly Greene declared the provincial state of emergency on Saturday afternoon, granting authorities additional powers such as the ability to restrict travel and secure accommodations for those displaced. “This is one of the more challenging fires that we have ever faced,” the B.C. Wildfire Service stated.

About 1,500 firefighting personnel are deployed across the province, supported by international teams from Mexico, Australia, France, and New Zealand. Air evacuations continue for people isolated behind the fire perimeter, and officials are urging those under evacuation orders to leave immediately so responders can focus on saving lives and containing the blaze.

The situation remains highly dynamic, with officials warning that other communities could face similar threats under the current extreme conditions. Residents are advised to monitor EmergencyInfoBC.ca for the latest updates. (ILKHA)