Wildfires are blazing across Western Canada, forcing thousands to evacuate and raising serious air quality concerns. 🔥🌲
This weekend, major wildfires spread over approximately 8,000 hectares, prompting authorities to issue evacuation orders in British Columbia and air quality warnings across multiple provinces. 😷
In British Columbia, residents of the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality and the Fort Nelson First Nation were asked to leave as fires expanded to 2,483 hectares. Mayor Rob Fraser reported that most of the 3,500 residents in and around Fort Nelson have been evacuated. 🏃♂️🏃♀️
The Fort Nelson First Nation, located just 7 kilometers from the town, also evacuated the Indigenous community of Fontas. 🚗💨
Meanwhile, in Alberta, residents of Fort McMurray—a city that suffered devastating wildfires in 2016—are on high alert and preparing to leave if necessary. Alberta officials reported two extreme and uncontrolled wildfires, including one that grew significantly over the weekend to 5,500 hectares. 🌪️🔥
Authorities noted that while the fire had momentarily subdued on Sunday, rising temperatures could exacerbate the situation. Winds are expected to push the wildfire away from major highways towards the Athabasca River. 🌬️🌊
Mayor Fraser mentioned that the fire was ignited when strong winds knocked a tree onto a power line. Six crews of wildland firefighters, 13 helicopters, and airtankers are battling the blaze. 💪🚁
The federal government has warned of a potentially \"catastrophic\" wildfire season ahead, with El Niño conditions causing higher-than-normal temperatures this spring and summer. Canada experienced one of its warmest winters, leading to minimal snowfall in many regions and increasing the risk of wildfires amid ongoing drought conditions. ☀️🔥
As communities in Western Canada brace for the challenges ahead, it's a stark reminder of the impact of climate change and the importance of preparedness. Stay safe out there! 🙏
Reference(s):
Western Canada blazes cause evacuation orders, air quality concerns
cgtn.com
