The Canadian province of Alberta is experiencing its worst wildfire season in decades, with over 800,000 hectares burned so far. The blazes have resulted in the evacuation of approximately 10,700 people from 17 communities in central and northern Alberta. As of Sunday, a dozen parks and recreation areas have been closed and a province-wide vehicle restriction has been put in place across the forest protection area. Hundreds of wildfires have been recorded in Alberta since January, covering around 61,776 acres. There are currently no open woodfires allowed on public or private land.
Unusually hot and dry weather is worsening an already dire situation, and some residents have been evacuated to safety. Farmers reported that their operations have been hampered by the smoke and its impact on photosynthesis. Thick wildfire smoke is causing concern among health officials since it can cause lung inflammation and injury, resulting in special air quality statements advising residents to stay indoors.
As fires continue to rage across northern Alberta, officials have enhanced their response to tackle the emergency. Approximately 1,000 firefighters from Saskatchewan, Ontario, Wisconsin, and South Africa, have joined Canadian firefighters to battle the blazes, with more on the way. The government has also offered payments of CAN$1,250 and an additional OF CAN$500 for each dependent ending child under the age of 18 for seven consecutive days, to those affected.
While forecasts suggest that a front likely to move into the province on May 23 should bring some relief with humidity and rain, authorities have closed some parks and campgrounds in Alberta over the Victoria Day weekend, when residents traditionally go camping or enjoy other outdoor activities, which usually sees an uptick in seasonal wildfires, some of which are accidentally caused by people.
Several oil and gas companies have had to stop or restart production in Alberta due to fluctuating fire-related risks. The wildfires have also sent smoke to US states, triggering air quality alerts in some places. More than 2,800 firefighters from Canada and the United States are currently battling about 91 active wildfires.
With Alberta Premier Danielle Smith up for re-election on May 29, the wildfires have become a test of her disaster-management skills. The province and the country as a whole continue to monitor the situation and provide aid to those affected by the fires.
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