British Columbia wildfire forces mass evacuations

A fast-moving wildfire, the Bald Range fire, erupted in Canada — British Columbia, Canada, on August 7, 2026, forcing over 20,000 people to evacuate from Summerland, Peachland, and surrounding areas along Okanagan Lake. The fire grew rapidly, burning over 100 square kilometers within a day, destroying homes and overwhelming the community of Faulder. Premier David Eby declared a provincial state of emergency on August 8, as more than 100 wildfires burned across the province, nearly half out of control due to hot, windy weather and drought. Firefighting helicopters were diverted to rescue trapped residents, and search-and-rescue efforts continued. The Canada — Royal Canadian Mounted Police investigated a possible wildfire-related death. The federal government, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, offered assistance. International firefighting teams from Mexico, Australia, France, and New Zealand were deployed. The event highlights the increasing severity of wildfire seasons in Canada, exacerbated by climate change.