Canada: State of emergency declared in British Columbia due to wildfires July 8

Event

Authorities declared a state of emergency in British Columbia due to ongoing wildfires throughout the region on Saturday, July 8. According to officials, 138 new wildfires broke out on Friday, July 7, bring the total number to over 240. Evacuation orders have been issued for Ashcroft, Cache Creek, Princeton, 105 Mile House, and 108 Mile House. Over 3600 people have been forced out of their homes. Some highways have been closed due to the fires, including Highway 1 and Highway 97C near Cache Creek. Highway 5A has also been closed near Princeton at the Highway 3 junction. Transportation disruptions may occur around the areas that have been evacuated.

Context

The last time a state of emergency was declared in British Columbia was in 2003, also for wildfires.

Advice

All those present in affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation and to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. possible evacuation orders, road closures).