🔥 1. Wildfires Force Over 30,000 Evacuations; Air Quality Alerts Issued
Canada’s 2025 wildfire season has intensified, with over 30,000 residents evacuated across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Environment Canada has issued air quality warnings for parts of northern Manitoba and Saskatchewan due to smoke from the fires. In Manitoba, communities like Flin Flon have been severely affected, with thousands seeking refuge in cities such as Winnipeg and Niagara Falls. The Canadian Red Cross has registered more than 14,300 evacuees from Manitoba First Nations communities. ctvnews.ca+2globalnews.ca+2globalnews.ca+2ctvnews.ca+2globalnews.ca+2ctvnews.ca+2ctvnews.ca
💰 2. Bank of Canada Holds Interest Rate Steady Amid Tariff Uncertainty
The Bank of Canada has maintained its benchmark interest rate at 2.75%, citing ongoing uncertainties related to U.S. trade policies. Governor Tiff Macklem noted that while there have been some positive developments, trade restrictions remain, and new import duties are still being threatened. The central bank emphasized the need to balance supporting economic growth with keeping inflation in check, signaling that future rate adjustments will depend on evolving economic conditions. wsj.com+3reuters.com+3canada.constructconnect.com+3bankofcanada.ca+2canada.constructconnect.com+2reuters.com+2
🇨🇦 3. Canada Prepares Retaliatory Measures Against U.S. Metal Tariffs
In response to the U.S. doubling tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imports to 50%, the Canadian government is considering retaliatory measures. Prime Minister Mark Carney is under pressure to act, with officials exploring options to counter the economic impact of the tariffs. The situation has heightened tensions between the two countries, with potential implications for the renegotiation of the USMCA trade deal in 2026. youtube.com+2ctvnews.ca+2reuters.com+2youtube.comwashingtonpost.com
⚡ 4. Ontario and Toronto Collaborate on New Transmission Line to Power Downtown
The Ontario government and the City of Toronto have announced plans to construct a third electricity transmission line to support the city’s growing energy needs. Currently, Toronto is supplied by two transmission paths, which are expected to reach capacity by the early 2030s. The new line aims to ensure reliable power for new homes, economic growth, and major infrastructure projects like transit. canada.constructconnect.com+1canada.constructconnect.com+1
🏒 5. CN Tower Lights Up in Support of Edmonton Oilers’ Stanley Cup Pursuit
In a rare display of national unity, Toronto’s CN Tower illuminated in orange and blue to support the Edmonton Oilers, Canada’s last remaining team in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. This gesture symbolizes the country’s collective hope to bring the Stanley Cup back to Canada after a 31-year drought. While some Toronto Maple Leafs fans expressed mixed feelings, the move highlights a shared national pride in the Oilers’ playoff run. timesofindia.indiatimes.com
