The wind-driven Bald Range wildfire spread rapidly on Friday evening, pushing flames into the Summerland region and surrounding valley settlements. Some 20,000 people were evacuated overnight as a major wildfire struck British Columbia Province in Canada.
British Columbia Premier David Eby said on Saturday that authorities are aware of "significant losses including homes and property" and that some people were trapped as conditions changed rapidly. Eby added that "aerial evacuation is being carried out for residents still isolated behind the fire perimeter."
Kelly Greene, the province's Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, declared a state of emergency. CTV News reported that more than 50 people had to be evacuated by air from the Faulder settlement.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney thanked firefighters and emergency response teams. Carney stated that the federal government stands ready to assist and support the British Columbia government in tackling the wildfire.
The fire was first reported on Friday evening. On Saturday, Eby warned that the fire "remains extremely active and significant challenges still lie ahead."
