Numerous fires continue to spread across Canada despite significant mobilization of emergency services. Evacuations are increasing and smoke is pouring across the border and increasing tensions with the United States.
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The fire was completely out of control. In Ontario, Canada, thousands of hectares of forest continue to burn in front of impoverished residents. At the other end of the country, in British Columbia, fires are also threatening hotels and homes. Even water bombing helicopters seemed helpless in the face of the rapid spread of fire.
There have been no casualties yet, but thousands of families had to urgently evacuate. “This is the only thing we managed to take, there are two houses that will burn down”describes a resident who stored as many items as possible in cars and caravans. “Many communities are flooded and we could be next. This is likely the fire season of a lifetime.”describes something else.
The result is a huge plume of smoke that spreads across New York City, where the Statue of Liberty is barely visible. Philadelphia or Washington have the same grayish light and burning smell that angers Donald Trump. “We hold Canada accountable for the fact that it is not properly managing its forests and the United States is needlessly caught up in dirty, polluted air that is dangerous to our health. Completely unacceptable.”– said the US President.
In retaliation, the American president even threatened his neighbor with new customs duties. Canada responded quickly. “Maybe instead of complaining, they should be supportive and help, because we did the same for our American friends. And that’s what we have to do.”– Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, reacted.
The situation is being closely monitored in New York, where the World Cup final will take place tomorrow evening. At this stage this is not in doubt.