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It was a beautiful summer day in Nova Scotia in early August 2021. But as the day progressed, smoke started to fill the air. The smoke wasn’t just a fleeting experience; it was an ongoing event that lasted for several days. A wildfire had started just north of Kejimkujik National Park, and it had grown out of control. Strong winds made it impossible to contain, and eventually, it spread to neighboring communities.
The wildfire in Nova Scotia that sent East Coast air quality plummeting is causing concern among residents and authorities alike. It is the biggest wildfire to hit the region in decades. The smoke has made breathing difficult for many, and those with respiratory issues are being advised to stay indoors.
The blaze has scorched over 900 hectares of land and has spread to neighboring towns. There have been several evacuations, and even the Canadian Armed Forces has been called in to help. With no significant rain in sight, the forecast calls for more hot and dry weather. Unfortunately, this is the perfect recipe for wildfires, and with lightning strikes continuing to occur, the wildfire could continue to affect air quality in the area for the foreseeable future.
Frequently, people underestimate the severity of wildfires. They assume that wildfires are limited to forested areas and don’t affect the air quality of nearby communities. However, that’s not the case. Wildfires like the one in Nova Scotia release massive amounts of particulate matter into the air and exacerbate air pollution. These particulate matters include microscopic solids and liquid droplets that can cause respiratory problems, among other things.
In recent years, the severity of wildfires has been increasing. In 2019, Australia faced a devastating wildfire that caused immense damage and killed over 30 people. Wildfires in the United States have also been rampant, particularly in California, where fires have caused unprecedented destruction.
The East Coast of Canada has never experienced a wildfire as large as the one currently burning in Nova Scotia. It is causing concern among residents, and they are starting to question what can be done to prevent future wildfires. As global temperatures continue to rise each year, more communities may find themselves in the same situation faced by the people of Nova Scotia.
In the short term, primary considerations for the safety of residents impacted by the wildfire are the top priorities. They must heed the guidelines posted by authorities, avoid outdoor activities, and only venture out when necessary.
Analogously, the people of Nova Scotia are fighting a different kind of enemy than health as we know it. It’s not a virus or bacteria that can be detected by modern diagnostic equipment. Instead, the people are fighting against smoke, which is an adversary that cannot be seen by the naked eye. This is one of the reasons why wildfires are so devastating; they are hard to detect, challenging to contain, and can spread in the blink of an eye.
As the wildfire continues to rage uncontrollably, the air quality in East Coast Canada continues to fall. The Canadian government is doing all it can to protect its citizens by providing protective masks, opening emergency shelters, and distributing assistance as needed. The people impacted by this disaster are coming together, showing immense resilience and bravery in the face of adversity.
It’s essential for everyone to understand the importance of maintaining healthy air quality, both at home and within the larger community. Taking simple measures like reducing one’s carbon footprint, using electric vehicles, and using public transportation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions can go a long way in reducing air pollution’s impact. While there’s no easy fix for wildfires, taking proactive steps to limit environmental damage can help prevent wildfires from becoming the new normal.
In conclusion, the people of Nova Scotia are taking brave steps in the face of adversity. The wildfire that started in early August 2021 has left the air quality in East Coast Canada in a state of peril. These conditions have made it challenging for residents to function normally, let alone step out of their homes. The blaze serves as a critical wake-up call for all of us to understand the critical importance of maintaining healthy air quality. By taking proactive steps toward limiting environmental damage, reducing our carbon footprint, and promoting sustainable living, we can strive to combat adverse impacts on our health and the environment and minimise the impact of future wildfires.
