One woman confirmed dead in wildfire in western Canada

An 80-year-old woman died while attempting to leave her home and escape a rapidly spreading wildfire in Canada’s British Columbia province, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said late Sunday.

The woman was trying to flee the blaze when she died, according to police. The incident occurred as the Summerland wildfire continued to spread across the region, forcing thousands of residents to leave their homes.

The fire broke out on Friday near Okanagan Lake and quickly grew in size, prompting authorities to order evacuations across affected areas.

More than 20,000 people have been evacuated as emergency crews battle the wildfire and work to protect communities threatened by the flames.

The blaze has raised concerns over the growing wildfire threat during the summer, with authorities urging residents in affected areas to follow evacuation orders and leave early when instructed.

Emergency services continue to monitor the situation as firefighters work to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further into populated areas.