A fast-moving wildfire in British Columbia has forced more than 20,000 people to evacuate, killing one person. Canada has put its military on standby. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
British Columbia declared a state of emergency Saturday as a fast-moving wildfire forced more than 20,000 people from communities in western Canada, destroying homes as it raced toward towns along Okanagan Lake.
The fire has killed at least one person, authorities said. Military forces have been put on standby to assist in firefighting efforts.
At an evacuation center in Penticton, Greg Krauter said he was evacuated from his property in Summerland with his seven goats. His goat stood in the back of his truck.
The fire started in an area known as Bald Range. Smoke blanketed Okanagan Lake, and people in Penticton were still floating in the lake and cycling.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered military assistance, and provincial authorities sent additional resources to firefighters.
The number of evacuees has exceeded 20,000, many housed in temporary shelters. The fire is still not under control, and weather conditions are favorable for its spread.
Authorities urged residents to comply with evacuation orders. Hundreds of firefighters are involved in the firefighting effort.
Information about the deceased has not yet been released. The cause of the fire is under investigation.