Canada News: The western Canadian province of British Columbia has declared an emergency as a swiftly expanding wildfire threatens residences near West Kelowna. Premier David Eby warned that the situation is fast shifting, with the McDougall Creek wildfire expanding from 64 to 6,800 hectares in 24 hours. Over 4,800 individuals have been ordered to evacuate.
In addition, another large wildfire in Canada’s Northwest Territories has displaced nearly 22,000 people, or over half of the population. As the wildfire approaches the city’s boundaries, the deadline for evacuating Yellowknife has gone.
Premier Eby acknowledged this year’s terrible wildfire season by announcing a provincial state of emergency to provide for quick access to needed resources. If non-essential travel is not avoided, the declaration may include travel restrictions to specified places.
Local officials have reported substantial structural damage, although there have been no fatalities so far. The fires are fueled by the region’s California-style climate, as well as recent dryness and wind.
Kelowna International Airport’s airspace has been limited to aerial firefighters as a precaution.
