There are currently 49 active wildfires in the province, down from 55 reported Monday.

Of those active fires, four are reported as contained, 11 are not contained, 18 are ongoing assessment and 16 are listed as protecting values.

Right now, 8 communities are under an evacuation order, including the Resort Subdivision of Lac La Plonge, La Plonge Reserve, Northern Village of Beauval, Jans Bay, as well as priority individuals from Patuanak/English River First Nation, Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Northern Village of Pinehouse and Canoe Lake Cree First Nation. About 1,700 people are misplaced from their homes in these communities, and 1,200 are being supported by the SPSA in hotels or staying with friends and family.

As of Sunday night, the community of Kinoosao is no longer under an evacuation order and started repatriating on Monday.

Although the fires are stemming from the north, Saskatoon residents are feeling the brunt of the wildfire smoke.

Scientist with Environment Canada Cristy Climenhaga says on the air quality health index, saskatoon’s air quality is sitting at 10+ right now, the most intense level that can be attained.

“It looks like it’s going to be sticking around for a little while… not really seeing a change in this wind pattern until maybe later in the week, maybe Wednesday or Thursday.”

She advises residents of saskatoon and a bit further south to stay inside as much as possible for the coming days, and make sure they’re accessing the cleanest air possible to avoid negative health impacts. She adds that smoke effects everyone differently, but inhaling too much can result in wheezing, light headedness, laboured breathing, headaches, cough, and chest pains