B.C. declares state of emergency as wildfires rage
Posted August 8, 2026 1:20 pm.
Last Updated August 8, 2026 1:48 pm.
British Columbia Premier David Eby declared a provincewide state of emergency on Saturday due to the wildfire activity over the past 24 hours.
“Since first reported early yesterday evening, the Bald Range wildfire has grown rapidly as winds intensified, pushing into the Summerland area and affecting communities throughout the surrounding valleys.” said Eby.
“We know there have been significant losses of homes and property. We also know that some people became trapped as conditions changed quickly. To everyone affected, you are not facing this alone – the entire province is with you.”
The blaze that hit Summerland yesterday led to over 20,000 evacuees.
“Our immediate priority is protecting lives and supporting rescue efforts. Air evacuations are underway for people who remain isolated behind the fire perimeter,” said Eby.
“Emergency officials are working around the clock to reach those who need help. We are receiving regular updates from incident commanders and co-ordinating resources across government to support the response.”
Kelly Greene, minister of emergency management and climate readiness, stressed that everyone in the evacuation areas should be gone from their homes and in reception centres, when necessary.
BC Wildfire director of operations Cliff Chapman, stated that the conditions seen in Summerland have never been seen before in wildfires.
