BC declares provincial state of emergency due to current wildfire situation

BC has officially declared a provincial state of emergency due to the heightened wildfire activity that has resulted in over 20,000 residents evacuating their homes. 

On Friday, August 7th, Premier David Eby made the declaration alongside Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, noting the Bald Range wildfire which was discovered on Friday and has since grown to over 15,590 hectares in size. 

The wildfire is located between Peachland and Penticton, and has caused thousands to evacuate as crews work to save people’s homes and infrastructure while containing the blaze. 

“We know there have been significant losses of homes and property,” said Premier Eby.  

“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.”

Currently the Bald Range wildfire is still deemed ‘out of control’ by the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) and has prompted five evacuation orders and four evacuation alerts. 

As of this publication, there are 94 firefighters from BCWS and local fire departments battling the blaze, with eight helicopters as well as skimmers and airtankers providing air support. 

BCWS has also employed 25 pieces of heavy equipment to respond to the fire and 120 structure protection personnel are providing around-the-clock support to try to save key infrastructure and homes. 

“The hours and days ahead will be difficult,” said Eby. “The Bald Ridge fire remains extremely active and significant challenges remain.” 

“But British Columbians always show up for one another when it matters most. We will continue to support affected communities, stand with those who have lost so much and do everything possible to keep people safe.”

The Bald Range wildfire is one of four fires determined to be ‘wildfires of note’ throughout southern BC. There are currently 105 wildfires in BC, with only three located on Vancouver Island. 

Looking ahead, BCWS expects this week could bring a high potential for lightning-caused wildfire starts, particularly in the central interior and the Okanagan which are receiving limited precipitation and dry lightning. 

Furthermore, elevated temperatures and wind gusts will continue to impact the Okanagan and southeastern regions of BC, which can increase fire activity.

“New ignitions occurring during periods of hot and dry weather can establish and spread quickly,” said BCWS in the latest wildfire overview update. 

“Of particular concern are smaller fires located in steep terrain where wind and slope alignment can rapidly accelerate fire growth.”

BCWS added that fires that appear manageable can quickly transition to higher intensity behaviour under these conditions, similar to what happened with the Bald Range wildfire. 

Anyone who sees a wildfire, no matter the size, is urged to report it to BCWS by calling 1-800-663-5555 or *5555. 

BCWS also urges those in high-risk areas to be prepared for emergencies by registering for emergency notifications from their local governments and discussing evacuation plans with their households.