Farnworth declares provincial state of emergency due to worsening wildfire situation

VANCOUVER — The provincial government has declared a provincial state of emergency due to the worsening wildfire situation in British Columbia.

Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth says he’s based his decision on a briefing he received last night showing winds and weather that could lead to an increase in evacuations.

The state of emergency is initially in effect for 14 days once issued and may be extended or rescinded as necessary. The state of emergency applies to the whole province and ensures federal, provincial and local resources can be delivered in a co-ordinated response to protect the public, which remains the provincial government’s top priority.

“Public safety is always our first priority, and as wildfire activity is expected to increase, this is a progressive step in our wildfire response to make sure British Columbia has access to extraordinary powers under the Emergency Program Act,” Farnworth said. “In a briefing last night, I received word that we’ll be facing a few days of very difficult weather in the Interior. This declaration will address the potential of a mass evacuation scenario and provide our government with the means to secure the accommodation spaces necessary to house our citizens, if necessary.”