Thousands of British Columbia residents were on high evacuation alert on Saturday after rapidly intensifying wildfires forced the western Canadian province to declare a state of emergency.
The Pacific province has seen strong winds and dry lightning in the past 36 hours due to a cold mass of air interacting with hot air built-up in the sultry summer. That intensified existing forest fires in the province and ignited new ones.
"The state of emergency declaration ... communicates to people across the province the seriousness of the deteriorating situation," Eby said. " enables a number of legal tools for us to issue specific orders and to ensure that resources are available." The fires have drained local resources and drawn in federal government assistance as well as support from 13 countries. At least four firefighters have lost their lives in the line of duty.
People left their homes and property behind on Thursday and Friday to seek refuge in neighboring provinces due to the threat of the creeping fire cutting off land exits and potentially doing worse harm.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
British Columbia Sports Betting in 2023 - Single-game Betting Has ArrivedDo you know about legal sports betting in British Columbia? Our guide has everything you need to know, including how it became legal, where you can bet, and more.
Read more »
– Bossa Saturday night and Shakespeare Theater on Saturday August 12thphoto by Emma K Alexandra Ed. Note: If this was you, please email princeofpetworthgmail.com so I can put you in touch with OP. 'Dear PoPville, Missed connection: Bossa Saturday night salsa dancing Aug 12. I asked you to dance and told you it was an A plus dance but chickened out and didn't ask your
Read more »
Man fatally shot near Columbia Heights Metro stationAn officer had driven through the intersection less than a minute before the shooting and heard the gunshots, police said.
Read more »
Columbia Scientists Discover Source of Hidden Consciousness in “Comatose” PatientsResearchers from Columbia have discovered brain injuries that could be the root of hidden consciousness. This mysterious condition occurs when individuals with brain damage seem unresponsive to basic commands, appearing unconscious even though they retain some degree of awareness. “Our study sugg
Read more »
Boil water notice issued for ColumbiaThe notice comes after a water main break that forced Houston County High School to hold virtual classes Thursday
Read more »