An 80-year-old woman has died in the Bald Range wildfire in British Columbia, Canadian police confirmed on Monday, marking the first fatality in the rapidly spreading blaze that continues to burn out of control.

Officials in the western Canadian province are still trying to determine the full extent of the damage, with an unspecified number of homes believed to have been lost to the inferno, which has triggered widespread evacuations.

The Bald Range wildfire nearly doubled in size over the weekend, forcing residents from their homes in British Columbia's wine country.

Fatalities Confirmed as Fire Nearly Doubles in Size

The octogenarian victim was identified by police after the blaze nearly doubled in size over the weekend, consuming vast tracts of land and forcing thousands to flee their properties.

Witnesses described the fire as moving "so fast," overwhelming initial suppression efforts and leading to a chaotic evacuation from the region, known for its vineyards and tourism.

Officials Assess Damage as Efforts Continue

Emergency services are continuing to battle the aggressive wildfire, with firefighters working to contain the perimeter and protect remaining structures.

Police and fire officials are coordinating efforts to assess the precise number of residences destroyed and to account for all residents in the evacuated zones.

The incident underscores the ongoing challenge Canada faces with wildfires, which have become more frequent and intense in recent years, particularly in provinces like British Columbia.