Ottawa, Jun 07 (V7N) — Massive wildfires continue to devastate the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, prompting local authorities to maintain a state of emergency, according to the Associated Press.

In Manitoba, the flames have scorched over 1,000 square miles of land. Officials report 27 active fires, with 8 already classified as out of control. The severity of the situation has forced the displacement of approximately 19,000 people, many of whom have sought shelter in areas such as Niagara Falls.

In neighboring Saskatchewan, 24 fires are burning across the province, displacing an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 residents. The fires have consumed vast stretches of forestland, pushing air pollution levels dangerously high in major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, due to thick, black smoke.

The fires, which began spreading last month, have gradually engulfed parts of central and western Canada. In Manitoba, a formal state of emergency was declared on Thursday. Authorities in Alberta have also responded by temporarily halting oil and gas extraction in several regions to prioritize public safety.

Environmental officials warn that continued dry conditions and high temperatures may further escalate the crisis in the coming days.

END/MSS/AJ