Canada's British Columbia declares state of emergency over wildfires

The western Canadian province of British Columbia (B.C.) declared a provincial state of emergency on Saturday as fast-spreading wildfires threatened several communities, reported Xinhua.

Speaking at a news conference in Vancouver, B.C. Premier David Eby said the decision was necessary given the dynamic wildfire situation and overnight large-scale evacuations, which required specific tools to ensure public safety.

"The conditions of this fire are extremely dangerous and are changing minute by minute," Eby said, stressing that saving lives and supporting rescue efforts remain the government's top priority.

He added that air evacuations are underway to rescue people cut off by the flames.

According to the provincial emergency management ministry, the state of emergency will grant the government greater flexibility to respond to the crisis, including the authority to commandeer accommodations and impose local travel restrictions.

The wildfire near Summerland remains particularly severe, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate and destroying several homes and properties.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on social media later Saturday that the federal government stands ready to offer full support to B.C. in its firefighting and relief efforts.