World News Live Updates: Canadian wildfire smoke chokes US’ Upper Midwest, impacts tourism
Much of the USA’s Upper Midwest experienced unhealthy to very unhealthy air quality on Saturday, due to smoke drifting from Canadian wildfires. This air pollution, particularly affecting Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, severely impacts outdoor activities and tourism.
Al Chirpich, owner of Hideaway Resort in Minnesota, noted deserted lakes and curtailed camper business, despite it being prime summer season.
The smoke, which began affecting the region Friday, is expected to persist through the weekend. Meanwhile, Manitoba is under a state of emergency with 12,600 evacuations due to wildfires that have burned a record 3,861 square miles.
Wildfires also continue to rage in Arizona and Colorado, leading to national park closures and hundreds of evacuations.
