Evacuation orders have been issued for approximately 20,000 residents as multiple wildfires rapidly spread across the western Canadian province of British Columbia.

British Columbia declared a state of emergency, stating that more than 100 wildfires have broken out across the province, with about half of them remaining out of control.

Firefighting efforts are facing difficulties due to high temperatures and strong winds, and it is estimated that more than 50 square kilometers have burned so far, with reports of property and housing damage as well.