One dead in British Columbia wildfire as evacuations expand

VANCOUVER, Canada — An 80-year-old woman died while fleeing her home as a large wildfire continues to burn in the Canadian province of British Columbia, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Police said she was trying to escape the flames when she was overcome by the fire. Officials have issued evacuation orders for several communities in the path of the fast-moving blaze and said security measures in the affected areas have been stepped up. British Columbia Emergency Management said weather conditions are increasing fire risk and that firefighters continue to respond to the flames. Residents have been urged to follow evacuation instructions. The RCMP said an investigation has been opened into the circumstances of the death, including its connection to the wildfire. Canadian forestry authorities have warned that western provinces face a high risk of wildfires during the summer months as temperatures rise.