Smoke from the explosive forest fires in Minnesota drifted into parts of eastern Canada on the current stretch of days. Environment Canada reported areas in Ontario among the worst globally for air quality in recent reports . Southern Ontario’s major cities faced urgent warnings about hazardous air from the drifting haze. Extreme drought and fierce gusts helped fires spread at breakneck speed through Minnesota and nearby states. Toxic smoke drifted north, blanketing Canada in a persistent layer of contaminants.