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World
Canada: Viral video shows freight train engulfed in flames amid Ontario's 100+ active wildfires
Herz — World Desk · · 30s summary · 1 min read
The essentials
On July 16, 2026, a viral video credited to AP shows a freight train surrounded by a wall of flames in Ontario, Canada, as the province battles more than 100 simultaneous wildfires. Hundreds of evacuation orders have been issued across Ontario, and Toronto is choked by thick smoke from the raging blazes. The crisis extends beyond North America: burned areas across Europe are 40 to 60 percent above average for July 2026. Active fires are devastating northern Algeria and the Fontainebleau forest in France. In French-speaking Switzerland, several cantons have imposed water restrictions due to record precipitation deficits dating back to 1864.
- Viral video on July 16, 2026 shows freight train surrounded by flames in Ontario, Canada.
- Over 100 wildfires burning simultaneously in Ontario; hundreds of evacuation orders issued.
- Toronto choked by wildfire smoke as fires spread across the province.
- Burned areas in Europe 40 to 60 percent above July 2026 average.
- French-speaking Switzerland: water restrictions amid record precipitation deficit since 1864.
What we know
On July 16, 2026, a viral video credited to AP shows a freight train surrounded by a wall of flames in Ontario, Canada. The images underscore the scale of wildfires currently devastating the province.
More than 100 wildfires are burning simultaneously in Ontario, according to France 24. Hundreds of evacuation orders have been issued across the province.
Toronto is choked by smoke from the ongoing wildfires spreading across the province.
100+
Active wildfires in Ontario on July 16, 2026
40% to 60%
Above average for burned areas in Europe, July 2026
Europe's burned areas well above normal
The crisis extends beyond North America. Across Europe, burned areas from wildfires are 40 to 60 percent above the July 2026 average.
Active fires are ravaging northern Algeria and the Fontainebleau forest in France, destroying wildlife and vegetation.
What about Switzerland?
In French-speaking Switzerland, a record precipitation deficit since 1864 has led several cantons and municipalities to impose water restrictions. These measures reflect a growing pattern of repeated drought episodes.
What remains uncertain
The identity of the railroad operator shown in the video, the total area burned in Ontario, and the death toll from the Canadian wildfires are not specified in available sources at this stage.
How many wildfires are currently burning in Ontario?
More than 100 wildfires are burning simultaneously in Ontario on July 16, 2026, according to France 24.
Have evacuation orders been issued in Ontario?
Yes, hundreds of evacuation orders have been issued across the province due to the wildfires.
Is the crisis limited to Canada?
No. Active wildfires are also affecting northern Algeria and the Fontainebleau forest in France. Across Europe, burned areas are 40 to 60 percent above the July 2026 average.
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