has declared a state of provincial emergency as wildfires continue to threaten communities across the province, including around Merritt where evacuation orders and alerts remain in place. The declaration comes as the Nicola Valley continues to face its own wildfire emergency. Air evacuations are underway for people who remain isolated behind the fire perimeter, while emergency officials continue working to reach those requiring assistance. Eby said the new wildfire and the large-scale evacuation overnight prompted emergency officials to advise the province that the additional tools available under a provincial state of emergency were needed. People under evacuation order are being urged to leave immediately and follow directions from local emergency officials.