Southern Sask. Sets Record for Smoke Hours Amid Wildfire Crisis

UPDATE: Southern Saskatchewan is facing an unprecedented crisis as wildfires continue to burn in the province, leading to record levels of smoke. Just last month, Regina recorded a staggering 109 smoke hours, marking the smokiest month since records began in 1953. The situation is worsening, with authorities warning that the region could see the highest smoke levels ever recorded this season.

Residents are grappling with heavy smoke that has become a daily challenge. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), smoke from wildfires in northern Saskatchewan, as well as from Alberta and Manitoba, is contributing to this alarming phenomenon. ECCC scientist Christy Climenhaga stated, “What we’ve been looking at is a lot of smoke from fires not only in north central Saskatchewan, which has been bringing a lot of the smoke that we have been seeing recently.”

The impact is palpable for those living in Regina. Local resident Jeanine Hackl expressed her concerns, saying, “I can definitely feel the heaviness on my lungs once I’m doing physical activity.” Another resident, Murray Kyle, remarked on the unusual severity of this year’s wildfire season, stating, “I don’t remember them ever being in the news when I was growing up.”

As of today, April 2023, officials report that Saskatchewan has logged 215 smoke hours, putting it on track to potentially surpass the previous record of 263 smoke hours from 2013. Climenhaga noted, “We’ll be having to see where this season stacks up when all is said and done.”

The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. As wildfires continue to rage, residents are advised to stay indoors, especially during peak smoke hours. The potential for the smokiest season on record from April through October looms large, and with each passing day, the air quality continues to deteriorate.

As Canada-wide smoke issues persist, authorities are urging vigilance. The latest data shows that the entire region is facing a public health risk due to the prolonged exposure to smoke, which obscures visibility and can lead to serious respiratory issues.

Residents are encouraged to monitor air quality updates and take necessary precautions. This developing situation requires immediate attention as the effects of the wildfires ripple across communities, affecting countless lives and health outcomes.

Stay tuned for more updates on this critical story as we monitor the evolving wildfire situation in Southern Saskatchewan.