Canada is facing big wildfires. The fires spread fast in the central and western parts of the country. They are also moving toward the north and east. Because of this, a state of emergency was declared in Manitoba. Many people have been told to leave their homes and move to safe places. Some oil and gas work stopped in Alberta for safety.
On Thursday, May 29, Reuters shared news about the wildfires. The fires caused damage and made many people leave their homes.
In Manitoba, the government declared a state of emergency on Wednesday. The fires spread fast and threatened many towns. Almost 17,000 people, including those in Flin Flon town, were told to leave quickly. This is one of the biggest moves of people in Manitoba’s recent history.
Manitoba’s Premier, Wab Kinew, spoke at a news event. He said moving so many people is a big task. People who left their homes will stay in community centers and sports fields in Winnipeg and other cities. The military is also helping with rescue work.
Premier Kinew said that fighting this disaster will need help from all government levels. Many resources will be needed to manage the problem.
In Alberta, some areas also have bad wildfires. Oil and gas companies stopped work in these places to avoid danger. Sinovac Energy said it moved workers from Foster Creek area in northern Alberta to keep them safe.
A big fire is burning near Chipewyan Lake. It covers about 2,900 hectares. This place is close to Fort McMurray, which is known for oil work. Because of the fire, oil companies are on high alert.
Alberta’s government said there is no direct danger now to people near Chipewyan Lake. But if the wind changes, the fire could become very bad. So, people were told to be ready to leave within one hour if needed.
Another fire is burning north of Swan Hills. It covers about 1,600 hectares. About 1,200 people near the fire were told to leave on Monday night. Aspenleaf Energy, an oil and gas company, stopped making about 4,000 barrels of oil per day to keep safe.
The fires cause big problems for people and businesses. Many families had to leave their homes. Oil and gas workers were sent home to be safe. Officials keep watching the fires closely.
Emergency teams and local leaders work hard to stop the fires. They also help people who left find places to stay. The government says it will give all needed help and money to fight the fires and help the people.
The wildfires come at a time when many parts of Canada are dry and hot. These weather conditions make fires spread fast and make it hard to stop them.
Firefighters from many provinces joined to fight the fires. They use planes, helicopters, and ground teams to fight the flames. But the fires still burn strong in some places because of wind and dry plants.
Officials ask people to stay alert and follow orders to leave if needed. They ask people to avoid fire areas and not return until it is safe.
The situation is serious. Many towns face a hard time to recover. Right now, the main goal is to save lives and keep homes safe from the fast fires.
Canada’s government and emergency teams work together to handle the disaster. More help and supplies will come in the next days to fight fires and help the people.