A devastating wildfire is spreading rapidly around Okanagan Lake in British Columbia, Canada. As the blaze intensified, more than 20,000 people were ordered to evacuate overnight and move to safer areas.
Local media outlet CTV News reported that a mandatory evacuation order was issued for the entire town of Summerland, which has a population of around 12,000. Another 8,000 people in Peachland and surrounding areas were also ordered to leave.
The fire was first reported on Friday evening, August 7. Within a few hours, it had spread across nearly 50 square kilometers, severely affecting the small community of Foulds.
Videos circulating on social media showed homes being engulfed in flames as terrified residents fled the area. Heavy traffic was reported on roads heading south toward Penticton as people attempted to evacuate.
Emergency information officer Eric Thompson described the wildfire as one of the “fastest-spreading and fastest-growing” fires ever seen in the region. The situation became so serious that he eventually had to leave the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to evacuate his own family.
“I also had to leave the Emergency Operations Centre to evacuate my family from the area. We are heading south,” Thompson said.
Thompson urged residents to leave the area as quickly as possible and to help neighbors who may be at risk.
“This is an extremely concerning situation for all of us. But we need to stay strong—for our loved ones, and especially for those who need help and support. So please check on your neighbors,” he said.
