Mysterious solar anomaly observed, with Canada being pointing the finger as potential cause
In late May and early June of 2023, wildfire smoke from Canada made its way across the Atlantic Ocean to Europe and the Baltic region. This event was confirmed by atmospheric research and monitoring of wildfire smoke transport.
The massive wildfires in Canada injected large amounts of smoke into the atmosphere, which was then transported over long distances. This is not an unprecedented occurrence, as two years ago, smoke clouds from Canadian wildfires also reached Scandinavia and the Baltics in late May and early June 2021.
The smoke from these wildfires has been causing significant disruptions in Canada. In the province of Ontario, for instance, 17,000 residents have been forced to leave their homes due to wildfires. Thousands more have been evacuated from populated areas in other provinces.
The smoke and fine ash particles from these wildfires are spreading far beyond Canada's borders. As a result, the skies are hazy both in the neighboring United States and across the Atlantic in Europe. In some parts of Europe, including Latvia, the skies have appeared unusually red during sunset, a result of the high concentration of smoke in the upper layers of the troposphere.
However, it's important to note that the air pollution from Canadian forest fires does not affect air quality at ground level in Europe and does not pose a health threat.
For those interested in tracking air quality in Latvia, the website of the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre provides up-to-date information. The centre also monitors weather patterns and offers forecasts to help the public stay informed.
This transcontinental wildfire smoke event is a reminder of the far-reaching effects of climate change on our planet. As wildfires become more frequent and severe, it's crucial for countries to work together to mitigate their impact and protect our shared environment.
References: [4] Atmospheric research papers and monitoring data confirm the transport of wildfire smoke from Canada to Europe and the Baltics in 2023.
- European public media outlets have reported on the transport of wildfire smoke from Canada to Europe and the Baltic region in 2023, as confirmed by atmospheric research and monitoring of wildfire smoke.
- The Latvian State Media (LSM) has covered the transcontinental wildfire smoke event, emphasizing the high concentration of smoke in the upper layers of the troposphere and its impact on the color of sunsets.
- The European Union, alongside its member states, is closely monitoring the effects of climate change on the environment and weather patterns, including the increased frequency and severity of wildfires.
- Environmental scientists are studying the impact of wildfire smoke on climate change and the importance of collaborative efforts among countries to mitigate its effects on our planet's air quality and overall ecosystem.
