Global National: Aug. 18, 2023 | Thousands in BC, NWT under growing wildfire emergency

In tonight's top story: The city of Kelowna, B.C. is under threat after the McDougall Creek wildfire significantly expanded, destroying several homes and putting thousands of people under evacuation orders. Jules Knox reports from West Kelowna on the severity of the situation and what firefighters are bracing for, while Global News meteorologist Kristi Gordon looks at what conditions are ahead for B.C. residents.

Plus, Farah Nasser speaks with West Kelowna Fire and Rescue Chief Jason Brolund about the long night for emergency crews battling flames.

Meanwhile, in the Northwest Territories, the deadline to leave Yellowknife over a nearby wildfire has passed for the city's 20,000-plus residents, as people scramble to make their way to the nearest evacuation shelter. Jayme Doll looks at how evacuees are being helped out of the fire zone.

Also, the town of High Level, Alberta is also becoming a hotspot for Yellowknife residents forced to flee from the fire that's closing in on the Northwest Territories capital. Jeff Semple reports from the scene, where an evacuation centre has been set up, and speaks with an evacuee about her frantic experience leaving the city.

Additionally, retired Royal Canadian Air Force Gen. Tom Lawson speaks about the challenges of organizing an evacuation operation with such a large group of people.

Furthermore, the crisis has led to an outpouring of support from people anxious to help with food, fuel, and shelter. Heather Yourex-West reports on the volunteers putting their lives on hold to help evacuees in need.

For more info, please go to https://globalnews.ca/news/9905695/west-kelowna-wildfire-evacuees/

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