Story perspectives
Canada readies troops as BC wildfire kills 80-year-old, evacuates 20,000
8/12/2026
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Story summary
- Canada placed its armed forces on standby after a British Columbia wildfire killed an 80-year-old woman and forced about 20,000 evacuations.
- The Bald Range fire has burned roughly 155 square kilometres and remains uncontrolled despite 19 helicopters.
- Forests Minister Ravi Parmar said more helicopters and personnel would not change the fire’s behavior.
- Defence Minister David McGuinty said the armed forces stand ready to assist if requested.
