In Focus

Once again, Canada is suffocating Minnesota with its smoke, while Arizona is battling wildfires, and devastating flooding in Texas has claimed many lives.

It seems that over the last few summers, the weather has become increasingly unhinged, swinging from one extreme to another. Over 100 wildfires in eastern Saskatchewan and western Manitoba are contributing to the smoke, which has been thick and debilitating.

When I finally had time to work in the garden, the heavy layer of smoke kept me inside. I wasn’t willing to risk needing an inhaler. The worst part was that it was nice and cool outside, but I didn’t dare open a window because of the dense smoke. Even a short walk to the garage left my eyes and nose dripping. There was nothing strong enough to make me function in those conditions.

While the smoke is terrible, at least the fires aren’t close by. Arizona, on the other hand, is battling two severe fires. The Dragon Bravo Fire destroyed about 80 structures, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge and a water treatment facility, which caused a chlorine gas leak that forced firefighters to evacuate. That fire began on July 4, and I can guess what might have sparked it. A few days later, the White Sage Fire ignited. The Dragon Bravo Fire quickly spread, fueled by 40 mph wind gusts. While these fires have been destructive, there has been no reported loss of life.

Texas, on the other hand, is experiencing devastating flooding, leading to increasing loss of life. Another flood watch was issued on Monday after a weekend filled with back-to-back flood warnings and heavier rains that caused a 30-foot rise in water levels. Some areas received 8 to 10 inches of rainfall from Saturday night into Sunday.

At least 129 people died due to extreme flash floods across Central Texas during the July Fourth weekend, and more than 170 remain missing. Days of stagnant downpours resulted in sporadic totals of 12 to 15 inches of rain. The latest flooding has caused search and rescue crews to pause their efforts, with even more flooding expected in the forecast.

It’s just one extreme after another—devastating fires, fatal flooding, and thick smoke. While we cannot stop Mother Nature, it is wise to pay attention to the weather and know where you’ll be to avoid getting trapped by a flood or fire. Most fires can be prevented, so please be careful with campfires and fireworks.

We may be suffering from thick smoke, but I can only imagine how much worse it is in Canada, and how many people have had to evacuate or have lost their homes.

It’s a challenging time for many regions, and we all need to be vigilant and responsible. Stay safe and take care of each other during these extreme weather events.