Wildfires Cause Smoke, Evacuations Across North America

Wildfire smoke is affecting large areas of North America, with Environment Canada issuing smoke warnings for regions including Squamish, Vancouver Island, and Northern B.C. Air quality has significantly deteriorated in cities such as Calgary, prompting health advisories and evacuation orders in areas threatened by expanding wildfires, some sparked by lightning. U.S. states like North Dakota and Wisconsin have also reported hazardous air quality due to Canadian wildfire smoke, with Wisconsin experiencing record particulate pollution. These events reflect a broader trend of more frequent and intense wildfire seasons, driven by climate warming and aridity, especially in regions with intermediate conditions. The 2023 Canadian wildfire season was the most severe in decades, and fires continue into 2024. Experts urge increased investment in clean energy and adaptation strategies to combat escalating wildfire risks.