The federal government has approved the B-C government’s request for help in fighting wildfires in that province. More than 34 hundred firefighters from across the country and the world are battling the fires which have burned more than 2800 square kilometres. Minister of Public Safety and Regina MLA Ralph Goodale says B.C. has asked for 200 Canadian Forces personnel. B.C. has also asked for aircraft to transport firefighters and equipment, as well evacuation support from remote areas. Goodale says climate change’s consequences are significant for Canada and these wildfires are a manifestation of that.

You’ll be noticing more smoke in the air, as a change in weather patterns ushers it back into the region. A special weather statement has been issued, and Environment Canada Meteorologist Brad Vrolick says some bands of smoke will result in reduced visibility. He points to one fairly thick band which will run from North Battleford to Saskatoon and towards Humboldt. It’s not certain if the forest fire smoke will make it to the Manitoba border before dropping southward. Along with the smoke, the change in weather patterns will also see much hotter temperatures.  (CKRM)(CJGX)