The entire town of Summerland, with a population of 12,000, is covered by the evacuation order. In addition, another 8,000 residents in nearby Peachland have been ordered to evacuate.
The fire has destroyed houses as it spreads, but it is unclear how many.
The fire was reported on Friday afternoon. It has since grown rapidly in size.
At least 104 fires are burning in the province, the public service channel CBC reports, citing emergency services. Almost half of them are considered out of control. At least 1,588 firefighters are working to contain and extinguish the fires.
