The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy noticeBritish Columbia has declared a state of emergency as a rapidly spreading wildfire devastates communities, forcing over 20,000 residents to evacuate their homes along Okanagan Lake in western Canada. Nearly half of these blazes are out of control, fueled by hot, windy conditions and a prolonged drought. Videos posted on social media appeared to show multiple homes burning as residents fled along roads with flames on both sides. Canada has endured increasingly destructive wildfire seasons in recent years, forcing mass evacuations and repeatedly sending smoke across large parts of Canada and the United States.