has declared a state of provincial emergency as the rapidly growing Bald Range wildfire threatens Summerland and forces thousands of people from their homes. A provincial state of emergency gives the province access to emergency powers that can include securing accommodation and imposing travel restrictions in certain circumstances. Cliff Chapman of the BC Wildfire Service described the fire as one of the most challenging the agency has faced. The Bald Range wildfire has grown to 10,340 hectares, according to the BC Wildfire Service. Officials warned that wildfire conditions remain volatile, particularly in southern B.C., as crews continue firefighting, evacuation, search-and-rescue and structure-protection operations.