Fire spreads beyond 100 square kilometers
British Columbia has declared a state of emergency after the Bald Range wildfire doubled in size. The blaze has spread over more than 103 square kilometers and is still listed as out of control. Officials described the fire as explosive, with hot, dry weather and strong winds pushing flames through forest and grassland.
The fire is burning west of the Okanagan region, an area popular with tourists and dotted with small communities. Thick smoke has darkened the sky for miles, and air quality warnings are in effect across the region.
Thousands evacuated
About 20,000 people have been ordered to leave their homes. Evacuation orders cover several communities, and emergency shelters have opened in nearby towns. Residents packed what they could and left as columns of smoke rose behind them.
Fire crews from across the province are being moved to the area. Aerial tankers have been dropping water and retardant, but officials say wind shifts could make the fire harder to control in the coming days.
Wildfire season grows more intense
The Bald Range fire is part of a severe wildfire season across western Canada. Firefighters have been stretched thin for weeks, and several provinces have asked for federal help. Scientists say hotter, drier summers are making fires larger and faster-moving.
The provincial government said the state of emergency will free up resources and speed up evacuation support. For the thousands who fled, the wait is only beginning. They are watching the sky, hoping the wind dies down and the crews get the upper hand.