Wildfire smoke goes through area and forces cancellations

Wildfire smoke from northern Ontario came through Essex County and Windsor last week before spreading to the United States. The Boblo ferry is seen running as the smoke surrounds it (above) while wind turbines in Malden Centre are shrouded in smoke (below).

Smoke from wildfires in northern Ontario came through this area and created quite an impact locally.

Cancellations, postponements and changes to events and sporting activities were reported as a result of the wildfire smoke. Open Air Weekends was one of the activities put on the shelf temporarily due to the smoky and hazy conditions.

An orange air quality statement was put out by Environment Canada last Thursday, July 16, but it was no longer in effect as of Monday morning (July 17).

“All Town of Amherstburg led outdoor recreation activities, including Open Air programming, are cancelled effective immediately and through the weekend due to poor air quality,” the town announced via social media regarding the July 17-19 weekend. “Outdoor facilities will remain open; however, all Town-run activities are cancelled. Residents and visitors are encouraged to limit time outdoors and take precautions to stay safe during this period of wildfire smoke.”

The Town of Amherstburg also referred people to visit the Windsor-Essex County Unit’s website for more information on air quality and wildfire smoke.

The smoke drifted into the United States, causing remarks from American politicians and raising their ire about air quality there. Premier Doug Ford referenced the wildfires while in the Windsor-Essex County region last Thursday for the groundbreaking of the new regional hospital.

“We will spend whatever it takes to keep people safe,” Ford stated.

The Ontario government is committed to spending money to keep people and communities safe, Ford told the crowd. He said when people need help, everyone comes together.

The province has expanded its base budget for emergency firefighting to $150 million since he came into power, Ford stated, adding his gratitude for the support the province has received for fighting the wildfires.

Ontario New Democrats issued a statement last Thursday (July 16) calling for Ford and Prime Minister Mark Carney to act with more urgency.

“Fires are moving through the north faster than we have ever seen before” said Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Lise Vaugeois. “Fire crews are doing their best, but they do not have the numbers or resources to slow the spread of these incredibly intense fires. The City of Thunder Bay is doing its best to support people fleeing fires but we need the provincial and federal governments to recognize the seriousness of the situation, declare a state of emergency, and bring all possible resources to the region to push back these fires before anymore communities are lost.”

Ontario NDP Deputy Leader Sol Mamakwa (Kiiwetinoong), and Guy Bourgouin (Mushkegowuk—James Bay) were also included in the statement.

Prime Minister Mark Carney commented on social media on Sunday by stating:

“This morning, I met with federal workers in Ottawa who are supporting the wildfire response efforts in Northwestern Ontario and across the country. This is one of the most intense wildfire seasons in Canadian history due to extreme heat waves and record-breaking dry conditions. Canada is mobilising more than 5,000 firefighters and nearly 300 waterbombers, helicopters, and evacuation aircraft to contain, control, and mitigate the fires. It’s an enormous, complex effort that ultimately depends on dedicated and brave individuals who work relentlessly to keep everyone safe.”

In a post to X July 17, federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre wrote: “Our thoughts are with people across Northwestern Ontario who have been forced from their homes as wildfires threaten communities. Thank you to the brave firefighters, first responders, and local leaders working around the clock to protect lives and property. We pray for the health and safety of everyone in harm’s way, and for every evacuated family to return home safely.”

Wildfire smoke goes through area and forces cancellations

By Ron Giofu