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Massive wildfires are raging across Canada's prairie provinces, forcing over 17,000 evacuations by the military and prompting state emergencies in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The fires, some the largest in Canadian history, are three times the average for Manitoba alone and have already burned 200,000 hectares. Smoke is impacting air quality across eastern North America, with warnings issued for cities like Chicago and Washington D.C. The situation is exacerbated by unusually warm and dry conditions linked to climate change, with experts predicting an above-average fire season. Studies highlight the serious health risks of wildfire smoke, including long-term effects on the heart and lungs.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.