What are wildfires?
Wildfires are sudden fires that happen naturally in places like forests or grasslands. Sometimes, people can accidentally start wildfires by leaving their campfires unattended or burning debris. Natural events like lightning can also cause wildfires.
Wildfires are more likely to happen when it hasn't rained for a long time, like during a drought. They can get worse if strong winds are blowing. Wildfires can cause problems with transportation, communication, and the water supply. They also destroy homes, crops and hurt animals and people.
Wildfires affect the weather and climate by releasing a lot of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide into the air. This causes air pollution, leading to health issues, like problems with breathing and the heart. Right now, wildfires are causing trouble in Canada.
Oh no! What is happening in Canada?
Canada has been facing massive wildfires for the past six weeks. A lot of people had to leave their homes because of these fires. The fires have burned up huge areas of land in the country.
Wildfires sometimes happen in Canada, but this time, these wildfires are so big that it is very difficult to put them out. It looks like Canada is heading towards its worst wildfire season ever.
Why are wildfires happening in Canada?
Hot and dry weather is perfect for wildfires to start. The weather in Canada has been hot and dry lately because of climate change. This makes it easier for wildfires to start in the country.
Half of Canada's wildfires start because of lightning. When it's dry and hot, there's more lightning too. The other half of the wildfires are caused by people. These fires grow quickly because of the bad weather, and putting them out is hard. The wind also makes the fire spread.
The smoke from these wildfires has even reached the United States of America (USA) and affected them.
How has the smoke from Canadian wildfires affected the USA?
Smoke from the wildfires in Canada is spreading to the USA. Last week, New York was covered in orange smoke for a few days. The air in cities such as New York and Philadelphia is unhealthy and can make people sick. The smoke will also reach southern states like Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Kansas, etc.
Schools in New York are having online classes. Some sports events have been cancelled, and a few restaurants are closed. Authorities have warned people about the bad air quality. They are asking everyone to be careful and avoid spending too much time outside.
What is Canada doing to stop these wildfires?
Canada is using all its resources to stop the fires. The USA, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa sent firefighters to help. Other countries are offering to help too. Let’s hope the wildfires stop soon so Canada, its people, and its neighbouring country stay safe.
