The government of the Canadian province of British Columbia declared a state of emergency on Wednesday due to floods and mudslides caused by torrential rains in recent days.

B.C. Premier John Horgan made the declaration at a news conference: "Heavy rains, strong winds and flooding have devastated entire communities of our province."

The declaration gives the province various powers, from banning hoarding to restricting travel in and out of flood zones. Thousands of people have been displaced from their homes and one woman has been confirmed dead.