Wildfire smoke from Canada is drifting toward U.S. cities, with 838 fires burning across the country and air quality in Toronto ranking among the worst in the world, according to BBC News.
According to IQAir, an air quality monitoring firm, Toronto topped a global pollution ranking this week, surpassing cities including Kinshasa, Delhi, Dubai, and Jerusalem. The dangerous air conditions prompted the closure of wading pools and forced organizers to call off outdoor fan gatherings tied to the England and Argentina World Cup match.
More than 100 wildfires are burning in Ontario alone, according to BBC News. In a statement issued Wednesday, Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige described the toll on the remote Namaygoosisagagun First Nation community in northern Ontario, saying it had been "devastated by an unexpected and fast-moving wildfire" that left homes and community buildings severely damaged.
Crew members aboard a freight train outside Armstrong, Ontario called for emergency help this week after fire closed in around the train and they reported being "encased" in flames. Canadian National $CNI Rail confirmed that everyone on board was brought to safety and that rail service in the area has been put on hold, according to BBC News.
Authorities say the approaching smoke is unlikely to rival the severity of 2023, when Quebec wildfires sent a thick haze across the U.S. East Coast. New York City Emergency Management stated Tuesday that "current forecasts do not indicate a repeat of 2023 conditions," according to BBC News, and announced that free KN95 masks would be made available at library branches throughout the city.
Minnesota is contending with over a dozen fires of its own, driven by a combination of high temperatures, drought-like dryness, and powerful winds. Residents have been urged by health officials to limit time outdoors and to refrain from vigorous physical activity if they do go outside.
More on this story: Ontario wildfires send smoke across U.S. Northeast as heat dome traps air near ground
Update, July 17, 2026: The number of wildfires burning in Canada has risen to more than 850 as of Thursday. About 15 communities near Thunder Bay, Ontario have been evacuated due to the fires. (per BBC News)