Environment Canada warned people in Southern Ontario, including Toronto, as well as parts of Quebec and most of Manitoba, about poor air quality due to smoke in the air. The Canadian Press
A wave of smoke from wildfires is spreading across Western and Central Canada. Strong winds have pushed the smoke into places far from the fires, including Ontario and Quebec. Officials have issued air-quality warnings in many cities due to the unhealthy air. People are being asked to stay indoors, keep windows shut, and limit outdoor activities.
Manitoba hit hardest by wildfires
Manitoba is facing one of its worst wildfire seasons in over 30 years. The province has declared a second emergency this year. Smoke is not only making the air dangerous but also slowing down efforts to fight the fires. Over 12,600 people have been forced to leave their homes this week alone.
In some parts of Manitoba, thick smoke is making it hard for helicopters and planes to land. This delays rescue and firefighting efforts. Grand Chief Alex McDougall, whose community is in danger, said smoke has made it nearly impossible to continue work safely.
Hundreds of fires burning nationwide
More than 560 wildfires are currently active in Canada. Around 155 of these are out of control. Experts say warm, dry weather will likely lead to more fires this summer. Recent rain helped a little, but thick smoke continues to pose serious problems.
Kristin Hayward, a government wildfire official, said teams are working hard, but smoke and heavy flames are making things harder.
Thousands take shelter in hotels and emergency spaces
Around 6,000 evacuees are staying in hotels within Manitoba, while 1,300 have been sent to Ontario. Others are living in shelters like university halls and even soccer fields filled with cots. Officials are preparing more emergency shelters in cities like Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie.
Thompson, a city in northern Manitoba, is at risk. A large fire is just 14 kilometres away. Residents have been told to be ready to leave within 12 hours. Mayor Colleen Smook said many people have already signed up for evacuation help.
Fires spread in nearby provinces
Saskatchewan has 52 active wildfires. Twelve of them are out of control. A fire near Prince Albert National Park is causing heavy smoke. Some northern villages have already been evacuated due to property damage.
In Alberta, more than 1,500 firefighters are working to control 54 fires. Some small towns have received evacuation orders. British Columbia is preparing for an increase in fires due to shifting winds. The province is currently fighting about 70 smaller blazes.
Meanwhile, Ontario reported five new fires over the weekend. The western part of the province near the Manitoba border is especially at risk.
Authorities warn against careless behavior
Officials say that human actions, including arson, have made the situation worse. Resources are being pulled from other areas to handle fires that may have been set on purpose.
