Wildfire in Canada. Photo: Shutterstock British Columbia has declared a state of provincial emergency as wildfire activity remains heightened across the province, with authorities warning that conditions could become more volatile in the coming days.
The provincial emergency was declared on August 8, 2026, because of regional wildfires. EmergencyInfoBC is currently listing multiple evacuation orders and alerts affecting communities across British Columbia.
The BC Wildfire Service said there are currently 105 active wildfires burning across the province, with 51 classified as out of control. Officials are also expecting an increase in dry lightning over the next 36 hours across central and southern parts of the B.C. Interior.
Extremely dry fuel conditions mean incoming weather systems could bring an increased risk of new fire starts, according to the wildfire service.
BC Wildfire Service said crews continue to respond around the clock to new and existing fires, with resources positioned in areas of concern.
International assistance is also being deployed. Overhead wildfire resources from Australia and New Zealand have arrived in British Columbia, while additional ground personnel are expected to arrive in the coming days.
The provincial agency is urging residents and visitors who are not currently under an evacuation alert or order to use the time to prepare.
That advice is particularly relevant for travelers exploring British Columbia during the summer, as wildfire conditions can change quickly and affect communities, roads and access to tourist destinations.
EmergencyInfoBC currently lists wildfire-related evacuation information for several regions, including the Okanagan, Thompson-Nicola, Cariboo and other areas. Travelers can check whether a particular destination is affected through the province's emergency information system.
One recent evacuation order related to the Bald Range wildfire covers areas including Summerland, Faulder and parts of the Central and Okanagan-Similkameen regions. Authorities have warned people in affected areas to leave immediately, while Highway 97 has also been closed on a section near Peachland.
Visitors already in British Columbia or planning road trips should monitor official wildfire and transportation updates before traveling. EmergencyInfoBC advises people under an evacuation alert to be ready to leave at short notice, while anyone under an evacuation order must leave immediately.
Travelers should also check DriveBC for current road conditions and closures, as wildfire activity can affect highway access.
The province recommends PreparedBC for emergency-readiness information, while FireSmartBC provides guidance for preparing homes and properties before a possible evacuation.
For the latest evacuation orders and alerts, travelers should rely on the official EmergencyInfoBC system rather than social media reports.