CBC - Good Chance Massive Saskatchewan Fires May Burn Until First Snowfall
The fires burning in northern Saskatchewan could burn until the first snowfall, according to researchers. Kerry Anderson, a research scientist with the Canadian Forest Service, said the weather pattern known as El Nino, which is caused by the warming of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of South America, is responsible.
He expects weather conditions will settle down in Saskatchewan in the coming weeks, but warmer than normal temperatures will likely persist in B.C. and Alberta. Anderson said even if crews bring the Saskatchewan fires under control, they may not actually be out until the fall.
"The large fires that are burning there will continue to burn until they are contained or until a fire-ending event may occur, and that may just end up being the first snowfall."
Wildfire expert Mike Flannigan said tinderbox conditions that have lead to the destructive fires in the West can be blamed on climate change. "Our weather this year has been very hot, dry and windy," said the University of Alberta professor.
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http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/saskatchewan-wildfires-could-burn-until-fall-1.3144514