Wildfire Count Dips as Smoke Engulfs Saskatoon: Residents Advised to Stay Indoors

Saskatoon, Canada - The wildfire situation in Saskatchewan remains serious, even as the number of active fires has dropped slightly. As of May 30, 2025, reports from CJWW Radio indicate that there are now 49 active wildfires, down from 55 just a day prior. This decline is heartening, yet the constant threat of smoke and fire remains a concern for many communities in the province.

Among the active wildfires, four have been contained; however, 11 fires are still not under control and 18 are undergoing ongoing assessments. Alarmingly, 16 fires are classified as protecting values, meaning they pose a direct threat to homes and infrastructure.

Evacuations and Displacement

Evacuations continue in several communities, with eight areas currently under evacuation orders. The impacted regions include the Resort Subdivision of Lac La Plonge, La Plonge Reserve, Northern Village of Beauval, and others. Approximately 1,700 residents have had to leave their homes, with around 1,200 individuals receiving assistance from the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) through hotel accommodations or by staying with friends and family.

Luckily, there’s been a bit of good news: the community of Kinoosao is no longer under an evacuation order and began repatriation on Monday. This offers a glimmer of hope in these challenging times.

Air Quality Woes

Saskatoon has been severely affected by smoke, resulting in an air quality health index rating of over 10, marking the highest level of concern. Residents are advised by Environment Canada scientist Cristy Climenhaga that the poor air quality is likely to persist for several more days. Until the situation improves, individuals are encouraged to stay indoors and limit their exposure to the polluted air.

The effects of smoke exposure can be drastic. Reports detail potential health issues such as wheezing, light-headedness, and even chest pains. It’s important for everyone to be aware and take precautions. Resources provided by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Smoke Ready Toolbox underscore the importance of preparation and knowledge in combating smoke events. Communities are urged to develop robust response frameworks and assess their vulnerabilities ahead of these smoke events.

Fire Risks and Community Response

Wildfires can ramp up quickly, posing threats to air quality and public health even for those located hundreds of miles away. The rapid spread of these fires calls for a collaborative approach among communities to minimize risks and enhance readiness.

For those living in or near impacted areas, having easy access to air quality maps and information about current conditions is vital. This approach can significantly help individuals plan effective measures to reduce smoke exposure during adverse conditions.

As Saskatchewan navigates this challenging summer, the focus on teamwork and proactive preparedness could be what makes the difference in overcoming both the fire and its lingering smoke. It’s a community effort, and as the saying goes—“many hands make light work.“