State of Emergency extended in B.C. due to wildfires

The ongoing wildfire issue has forced the British Columbia government to extend the provincial state of emergency through to the end of the day on August 31, 2021.

“We’ve seen several large fires spread rapidly over the weekend in multiple communities throughout the province,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

“As we renew this state of emergency for another two weeks, I want to assure British Columbians that we’re taking every step possible to ensure the safety of everyone in these communities. We’re also asking travellers to stay away from fire-affected areas — those under evacuation order or alert — and consider travelling to other areas of B.C. until the situation stabilizes.”

As of Tuesday, August 17, 263 fires were burning across the province, including the White Rock Lake wildfire, which is estimated to be over 780 square kilometres, and the Mt. Law wildfire which put West Kelowna’s Glenrosa neighbourhood at risk over the weekend.

Province-wide, there are 86 evacuation orders affecting approximately 8,262 properties, and evacuation alerts affecting another 22,729 properties.

“Wildfire crews and first responders are currently faced with incredible challenges as they fight multiple fires throughout our province,” said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.

“The best way we can support their efforts is to work together and follow evacuation orders and alerts because the safety of all British Columbians is our top priority.”

Extending the State of Emergency will allow the provincial government to continue to focus efforts on supporting the firefighting efforts and assisting those under evacuation orders and alerts.