Premier David Eby declared British Columbia's first provincial state of emergency since 2023 on Saturday, as the out-of-control Bald Range wildfire tore through the Okanagan Lake region, forcing more than 20,000 residents to flee their homes overnight. The District of Summerland — home to roughly 12,000 people — was evacuated in its entirety, while another 8,000 residents in and around Peachland were also ordered out as flames raced across the valley. First reported Friday evening, the fire has since swelled to more than 95 square kilometres, with some estimates suggesting it has grown even larger, prompting Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Kelly Greene to invoke emergency powers giving officials rapid access to accommodations and resources.
Photo: SYNAG/BC Wildfire Service Facebook Page
Eby said the wildfire has already destroyed homes and properties, with some residents trapped as conditions shifted with little warning overnight. Air evacuations remained underway Saturday for those still cut off behind the fire's perimeter, as firefighters, RCMP officers and emergency crews worked through the night in what the premier called "heroic" efforts — many risking their own safety to save others. He urged anyone still under evacuation orders to leave immediately, calling the fire's behavior "extremely dangerous" and warning that conditions were changing "minute by minute."
With the blaze still raging and no end in sight, officials say their priority now is protecting lives and finding shelter for the displaced, working with local authorities to house residents with nowhere else to go. "The hours and days ahead will be difficult," Eby said, vowing continued support for affected communities. "Our thoughts are with every person, family and community affected by this wildfire."
Photo: SYNAG/BC Wildfire Service Facebook Page