Thousands flee fires in Canada

Wild fires in western Canada have forced thousands to flee their homes.

Officials say some 11,000 people have been evacuated as fire-fighters battle two large blazes sweeping southern British Columbia.

Emergency crews have made slow progress bringing the fires under control. However, no deaths or injuries have been reported.

‘‘A guy pulled into our yard honking, saying ‘you have to get out, you have to be evacuated right now.’‘ One homeowner said.

Wind and dry conditions are fuelling the blazes that broke out on Saturday near the city of Kelowna. Officials admit they are struggling to cope.

‘‘Since I’ve been here I’ve never seen wind that strong and it really made for a very difficult fire situation for us.’‘ said West Kelowna Fire Chief Wayne Schnitzler

The cause of the fires is still unknown and some 6,000 residents remain on standby to leave the area if asked to do so.

Copyright © 2009 euronews

tags: Canada, Natural disasters