Listen to this article
Approximately 3 minutes
The audio version of this article was created using artificial intelligence technology. Pronunciation errors may occur. We work with our partners to continually analyze and improve results.
A heat wave is hitting northwest Alberta as multiple new wildfires break out in the area.
Environment Canada issued a heat warning for the northwest corner of the province Wednesday morning, warning temperatures were expected to reach a potential high of 31 C.
The agency is urging residents of Mackenzie County, located about 750 kilometers northwest of Edmonton, and people living in northern Northern Lights County to take steps to prepare for extreme heat.
Meanwhile, multiple out-of-control wildfires were discovered Tuesday and Wednesday in northeastern Mackenzie County, according to Alberta Wildfire online data.
Environment Canada meteorologist Julien Corriveau said the northern heatwave is caused by an “abnormally large ridge of high pressure” that is also triggering heat warnings in the Northwest Territories and parts of Nunavut.
“The heat will continue until at least the end of the weekend. It doesn’t look like it will subside until maybe next week,” Corriveau said.
14 new forest fires.
Hot weather in northwestern Alberta is accompanied by a wave of new wildfires.
Alberta Wildfire provincial information director Melissa Storey told CBC News on Wednesday that “14 new wildfires” in Mackenzie County were sparked by thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon.
Five of those new fires were considered “out of control” as of Wednesday afternoon, according to the province. The largest of these wildfires is estimated to be over 11 hectares in size.
However, Storey said several fires have already been extinguished.
Fighting the coming heat
Environment Canada is forecasting a risk of thunderstorms Wednesday night and Thursday afternoon in the High Level city area.
Story says Alberta Wildfire continues to closely monitor potential storms.
“We have crews that are patrolling. They’re keeping an eye out for any (smoke)… in the area and will respond quickly,” Story said.
In the meantime, the town of High Level, located in the center of Mackenzie County, is advising residents to be aware of the weather.
Senior Deputy Fire Chief Scott Smith said the most important thing people can do is stay hydrated and check on family members, friends and neighbors.
Smith also said anyone starting a fire should make sure there is a water source nearby and advised residents to report any dangerous fires.
Story says the High Level community currently has a “very high” fire danger rating.