Aug 18, 2023, 12:09 AM IST
Wildfires are a recurring phenomenon in the western provinces of Canada; however, this year an unprecedented spree has been witnessed.
The situation across Canada is dire, with a total of 1,054 active wildfires, including 230 in the Northwest Territories alone.
Due to massive wildfires, even the sky in the North American country has turned red.
The resulting smoke has enveloped Canada and even parts of the United States, leading to health concerns and advisories being issued, urging people to minimise outdoor exposure and consider wearing masks.
In a concerted response, more than 20,000 residents of Yellowknife are being evacuated as firefighters tirelessly battle to prevent the encroaching wildfires from reaching the city.
Recent attention has shifted back to the western regions, where wildfires are currently blazing just about 16 km (10 miles) northwest of Yellowknife, the capital of the sparsely populated Northwest Territories.