Maple News Wire: Latest News on Elections, Celebrities, Politics, Finance, Travel, and Food in Canadian Cities

-

July 13, 2025

Saskatchewan Hit by Majority of Canada’s Tornadoes in 2025

Saskatchewan has seen 10 tornadoes in a single day this year, surpassing the rest of Canada combined, says the Northern Tornadoes Project.

Saskatchewan Faces Unprecedented Tornado Surge

Record Activity Confirmed by Tracking Project
Saskatchewan has experienced 17 tornadoes so far in 2025, outpacing all other Canadian provinces combined, according to data from the Northern Tornadoes Project (NTP), a national research initiative based at Western University in London, Ontario. The spike includes 10 tornadoes recorded in a single day—June 19—marking one of the most active days since the project began tracking in 2017.

Tornadoes Strike South and Central Regions

Locations and Ratings Detailed
The tornadoes primarily hit south and central areas between Estevan and Saskatoon. On June 19, two EF-2 tornadoes tore through Kronau and Frobisher, with three EF-1 twisters reported in South Touchwood, Hubbard, and Blackstrap Lake. Additional EF-0 tornadoes affected communities such as Young, Vibank, and Hirsch. Earlier and later events include EF-rated storms near Cut Knife on June 2 and Stockholm on June 29.

Uncommon Outbreaks Spark Concern

Meteorological Factors at Play
David Sills, NTP Director, noted that 12 of the 17 tornadoes occurred within a three-day window from June 19 to 21. He attributes the outbreak to a combination of extreme surface heat and the precise timing of weather fronts. “It’s a matter of timing and coincidence—peak heating and frontal collisions,” Sills said. Though uncommon, such outbreaks are not unheard of in prairie provinces.

Community Impact Felt on the Ground

Damage and Close Calls in Hubbard
In Hubbard, northeast of Regina, residents Kayla Chamberlin and Shawn Hanofski witnessed a tornado touch down in their yard. Their home sustained minor roof damage, but the surrounding farmland was hit harder—trees uprooted and equipment scattered. “You could hear things being smacked up against the house,” said Chamberlin. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported from any confirmed tornado in Canada this year.

Historical Comparison and Outlook

2025 Exceeds Tornado Trends
On average, Saskatchewan records 14 tornadoes per year. This year’s tally has already exceeded that mark—and it’s only July. For context, 2022 saw 26 tornadoes, while just one was reported in 2023. The rest of Canada has seen only 13 tornadoes this year: Alberta and Quebec with four each, Manitoba and Ontario with two, and British Columbia with one.

Experts Hope Peak Has Passed

Seasonal Shift May Reduce Threat
While June and July typically mark peak tornado season, activity usually drops off in August. “Hopefully we’ve seen the peak and we’ll tail off now,” Sills said. Nonetheless, experts urge residents to remain prepared and consider structural reinforcements, as shown in one case where special roof bracing likely prevented major home damage.

Summary

Saskatchewan is experiencing a record-setting tornado season, with more tornadoes than the rest of Canada combined. The surge has brought damage to rural areas but, thankfully, no loss of life. As the season wanes, researchers continue to monitor conditions closely.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Garden Hill Evacuees Face Shelter Crisis in Winnipeg

-

July 13, 2025

Garden Hill Evacuees Face Shelter Crisis in Winnipeg

1,000 Garden Hill wildfire evacuees arrive as Winnipeg shelters overflow. Leaders urge government to provide hotels for safety and dignity.

Evacuation Intensifies as Wildfire Nears Garden Hill

Over 1,000 additional evacuees from Garden Hill First Nation began arriving in Winnipeg on Saturday as wildfires continue to threaten the remote northeastern Manitoba community. A total of 1,800 residents have already been relocated since a mandatory evacuation order was issued on Thursday. Local leadership is now calling for urgent federal and provincial intervention to provide safe, dignified accommodations for those displaced.

Shelters Overwhelmed Amid Growing Displacement

Garden Hill Vice-Chief Craig Munroe confirmed that the current shelter at the Garden City soccer complex is overcrowded. The facility, intended for short-term emergency use, is struggling to accommodate evacuees, including vulnerable populations such as children, Elders, and infants. “It’s loud, people can’t sleep, and the conditions are not ideal,” Munroe said. “We need to get our people into hotels.”

Government Aid Urged as Situation Deteriorates

The evacuation follows Manitoba’s declaration of a wildfire-related state of emergency. Garden Hill, a fly-in community approximately 475 kilometres northeast of Winnipeg, faces an encroaching blaze that has already consumed roughly 2,500 hectares. Leaders are urging all levels of government to provide additional hotel space and logistical support to protect evacuees from further distress.

Evacuees Struggle With Uncertainty and Health Risks

Community members report deteriorating conditions at the shelter. Charles Knott, an evacuee who secured a hotel room for his wife due to medical concerns, has been delivering supplies to his grandchildren still housed at the complex. “It’s heartbreaking,” Knott said. “Kids are getting restless. People are sleeping on cots. There’s no privacy.” A community donation centre on Arlington Street is collecting diapers, baby formula, and other essentials.

Smoke Grounds Planes, Threatens Health of Frontline Workers

Thick smoke on Saturday prevented a Hercules military aircraft from landing at the Garden Hill airstrip, further delaying evacuations. Meanwhile, over 1,200 firefighters, council members, and emergency staff remain in the community to monitor the advancing blaze. “They’re getting sick from the smoke. Some have lung infections,” said Munroe. “We urgently need ground support and medical aid.”

Community Leaders Coordinate from Winnipeg Command Centre

A temporary command centre has been established at a Winnipeg hotel where Garden Hill leadership is coordinating logistics, resource distribution, and community care. Efforts are underway to prioritize hotel rooms for Elders and young children. “We’re doing everything we can,” Munroe stated. “But without more government help, our people will continue to suffer in unacceptable conditions.”

Background and Outlook

Garden Hill is located on a peninsula on Island Lake and is only accessible by air. The wildfire continues to grow and shift rapidly, raising fears it could encircle the community. Residents are deeply concerned about the fate of their homes and land. “If the wind turns north, it could hit the heart of our community,” Knott warned.

As the crisis escalates, leaders stress the need for an immediate, coordinated response to protect the health and dignity of their people.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Community Still Seeks Answers in Quadeville Girl’s Attack

-

July 13, 2025

Community Still Seeks Answers in Quadeville Girl’s Attack

Quadeville residents seek answers after police town hall on attack that left 8-year-old girl critically injured. Publication ban limits public details.

Shock Lingers in Quadeville After Town Hall

A wave of concern continues to grip the small Ontario village of Quadeville following a police-hosted town hall on Saturday evening. The meeting came nearly three weeks after an eight-year-old girl was found with life-threatening injuries in nearby woods, an incident that initially sparked fears of an animal attack but later resulted in attempted murder and sexual assault charges against a 17-year-old male.

Residents Pack Community Centre for Answers

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) organized the town hall at the Quadeville Community Centre, drawing dozens of local residents seeking clarity. The accused and victim cannot be identified due to the Youth Criminal Justice Act and a publication ban, which police say restricts what can be publicly disclosed. While some attendees appreciated the police presence and transparency efforts, others left frustrated by unanswered questions.

Community Questions Police Handling of Case

A primary concern voiced during the meeting was the timeline: when the suspect was identified and why human involvement was not considered earlier. Acting OPP Chief Superintendent Derek Needham acknowledged the sensitivity of the case and explained that forensic tests took time, but that residents were informed of developments “within hours” once animal DNA was ruled out.

Misinformation and Tension in a Tight-Knit Village

The lack of public information over several weeks fostered anxiety in the tight-knit community, where many residents are connected through family or long-standing relationships. “Everybody’s related to each other somehow,” said local resident Tom Bekiaris. “It’s almost like—how could family do something like that?” The delay in clarity led to weeks of parents keeping children indoors out of fear.

Police Emphasize Transparency Within Legal Limits

OPP officials, including spokesperson Bill Dickson, admitted they anticipated some dissatisfaction but aimed to reduce misinformation. “We were hoping to ease some of the concerns,” he said. However, residents like Ron Boudry felt crucial details were withheld. “Stuff was being held too tight,” he remarked.

Calls for Community Healing Amid Trauma

Despite lingering questions, some residents expressed appreciation for law enforcement’s outreach. “It’s going to take time,” said Jovette Haynes, who has lived in Quadeville for eight years. “They can’t say too much, but I think they’re doing what they can.” As the community grapples with shock, Needham urged unity: “That healing process has to be as a community.”’

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Chris Martin Clarifies “Weird Stadium” Remark in Toronto

-

July 13, 2025

Chris Martin Clarifies “Weird Stadium” Remark in Toronto

Coldplay’s Chris Martin says he didn’t mean to insult Toronto’s new Rogers Stadium after calling it “weird” during the band’s first show at the venue.

Coldplay Star Addresses Stadium Comment During Toronto Show

Chris Martin, lead singer of British rock band Coldplay, publicly clarified remarks made earlier in the week about Toronto’s newly opened Rogers Stadium. During the band’s third of four back-to-back performances on Friday, Martin told fans his “weird stadium” comment was never intended as an insult.

Comment Sparked Backlash After Opening Show

The controversy began Monday during Coldplay’s first show at the 50,000-seat venue, built on the former Downsview Airport lands. Martin referred to it as “a weird stadium in the middle of nowhere,” drawing attention on social media and among fans who interpreted the phrase as criticism.

Martin Explains Intent Behind Viral Statement

On Friday, Martin addressed the crowd directly, saying his words were taken out of context. “I have never criticized this stadium that was beautifully, kindly built for us to play in,” he said. “I was just thanking people for coming all this way. I didn’t mean anything mean at all.”

New Venue Faces Logistics Concerns

The Rogers Stadium, which opened in June, has faced complaints about crowd control and accessibility. Concertgoers after Coldplay’s first show reported long delays exiting and inadequate transportation options from the site, which lies on the city’s northern edge.

Band Continues Sold-Out Tour Despite Venue Critiques

Despite logistical hurdles and the headline-making remark, Coldplay’s Toronto shows remain sold out, drawing tens of thousands of fans each night. Martin reiterated his appreciation for the crowd’s energy and patience: “We’re so grateful to have somewhere to play and to be with all of you.”

Organizers and Fans Move Forward

No official response has been issued by venue operators, but fans at Friday’s show appeared supportive, cheering Martin’s clarification. The band is set to close its four-night Toronto run this weekend, continuing its world tour across North America.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Trump Imposes 30% Tariffs on EU, Mexico Starting Aug. 1

-

July 13, 2025

Trump Imposes 30% Tariffs on EU, Mexico Starting Aug. 1

Trump’s new 30% tariffs on the EU and Mexico begin Aug. 1, sparking trade tensions and prompting possible countermeasures. Canada may face hikes too.

U.S. Announces Sweeping Tariffs on Key Trade Partners

On Saturday, July 12, U.S. President Donald Trump formally announced new 30% tariffs on imports from the European Union and Mexico, set to take effect on August 1, 2025. The declaration, released via social media, marks a significant escalation in U.S. trade policy and has sent ripples through global markets and diplomatic circles.

A Strategic Election-Year Move

The tariff decision is a central plank of Trump’s 2024 re-election platform, where he has promised to “revive” the U.S. economy by targeting what he calls decades of trade imbalances. Similar tariff threats were made earlier this year but were paused for 90 days to allow for individual negotiations. That pause has now ended.

Economic and Diplomatic Fallout

Both the EU and Mexico swiftly reacted. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that the bloc will pursue proportionate countermeasures if necessary, although negotiations remain ongoing. Mexican officials labeled the tariffs “unfair treatment” but expressed hope for improved terms before the deadline.

Canadian officials have not been spared. While Trump’s new letters do not yet confirm tariffs on Canada, earlier communications this week threatened a 35% hike, particularly targeting non-compliant goods under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

Underlying Justifications and Criticism

Trump’s letters accuse the EU of creating “persistent trade deficits” and label Mexico a “Narco-Trafficking Playground,” despite acknowledging Mexican cooperation on border security and fentanyl interdiction. Critics across Europe and North America say the move risks igniting a full-scale trade war. Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson warned it is U.S. consumers who will suffer most, while French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized Europe’s resolve to protect its interests.

What’s at Stake for Canada

Canada, while not yet directly targeted in this latest tariff package, remains deeply affected due to its intertwined supply chains with both the U.S. and Mexico. Any disruption in North American trade flows—particularly under CUSMA—could have serious consequences for Canadian exporters, particularly in auto, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.

What Happens Next

EU trade ministers will meet Monday to evaluate response options. Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum struck a diplomatic tone, expressing confidence in reaching an agreement without escalating tensions.

If implemented, the tariffs will disrupt billions in trade and challenge longstanding global agreements under the World Trade Organization’s “most favoured nation” rules, which require countries to treat all trading partners equally.

Outlook

With the August 1 deadline fast approaching, the world will be watching closely. Trump’s aggressive trade stance may reshape global commerce—but not without potential economic costs, diplomatic strain, and uncertain consequences for partners like Canada.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Bear Creek Bridge Set for $7.5M Makeover This Summer

News

-

July 12, 2025

Bear Creek Bridge Set for $7.5M Makeover This Summer

Surrey plans $7.5M upgrade for Bear Creek Bridge and 140 Street, adding four lanes, bike paths, and pedestrian features by Fall 2026—pending council vote.

Big Changes Coming to Bear Creek Bridge

Surrey is gearing up for a major infrastructure upgrade. After standing strong for over 50 years, Bear Creek Bridge is now set for a complete replacement. The city says the aging structure has served its time, and with rising traffic demands, it’s ready for an upgrade that’s long overdue.

$7.5M Contract Up for Approval

On July 14, Surrey City Council will decide whether to approve a hefty $7.57 million construction contract with B.A. Blacktop Infrastructure Inc. The total budget? Capped at $8.33 million. If greenlit, construction could kick off as early as this summer, with the final touches expected by fall 2026.

What’s in the Works?

It’s not just about replacing the bridge. The plan includes widening a key stretch of 140 Street—from 80B Avenue to the 8200-block—from two lanes to four. That means smoother traffic flow and fewer headaches for drivers.

But wait—there’s more!
The project also promises upgraded pedestrian walkways and brand-new cycling lanes, making the corridor safer and more accessible for everyone. And yes, a new water main crossing is part of the overhaul too.

A Modern Vision for a Growing City

As Surrey continues to grow, projects like this are crucial. They don’t just improve infrastructure—they support safety, sustainability, and smarter urban planning. If council gives the nod, this upgrade will mark a big step forward for the community.

TL;DR:
Council votes July 14 on a $7.5M plan to replace Bear Creek Bridge and widen 140 Street. If approved, construction starts this summer and wraps by Fall 2026—with better roads, safer sidewalks, and dedicated bike paths ahead.

Revelstoke Eyes Third Win as Canada’s Top Ski Resort

Health & Lifestyle

-

July 12, 2025

Revelstoke Eyes Third Win as Canada’s Top Ski Resort

Revelstoke Mountain Resort is in the running—again! Nominated for Canada’s Best Ski Resort 2025, it aims to top the list for a third time.

Revelstoke Nominated for Canada’s Best Ski Resort—Again!

In a thrilling streak that’s become almost tradition, Revelstoke Mountain Resort has once again secured a finalist spot in the prestigious World Ski Awards, now in its 13th year. The resort is no stranger to accolades, having bagged the title of Canada’s Best Ski Resort in both 2016 and 2020. And now, for the 11th consecutive year, it’s back in the spotlight.

A Legacy of Excellence on the Slopes

Let’s be honest: if you’ve ever floated through powder in Greely Bowl, plunged into North Bowl, or carved your way down the fiery run called Hot Sauce, then you already get the hype. As RMR proudly shared on Facebook, “Revelstoke is where the stoke lives.”

This year, it’s not just about bragging rights. The 2025 award could mark a hat trick for RMR—its third time claiming the crown. And while it’s no stranger to this elite list, Revelstoke faces stiff competition, especially from Lake Louise, the perennial favorite that has taken the title nearly every year since the awards launched in 2013.

Community Power: The Stoke Behind the Vote

Voting opened on June 23 and runs through October 10, giving fans plenty of time to help elevate RMR to the top spot. The resort is calling on locals, visitors, and powder-chasers everywhere to “show some love and vote stoke.”

So whether you’ve visited once or you’re a die-hard Revelstoke regular, this is your moment to be part of ski history.

Meet the Contenders

Joining Revelstoke in the race for Canada’s top ski resort are:

Lake Louise Ski Resort
Whistler Blackcomb
Banff Sunshine Village
Fernie Alpine Resort
Mont Tremblant
Sun Peaks Resort
RED Mountain Resort
Panorama Mountain Resort
Big White Ski Resort
Whitewater Ski Resort

Each offers its own flavor of mountain magic, but only one will earn the ultimate nod this year.

Want to vote? Head over to worldskiawards.com and cast your ballot before the snow flies.

Team Canada Storms into Semifinals at Canada Cup

Sports

-

July 12, 2025

Team Canada Storms into Semifinals at Canada Cup

Team Canada defeats TC Colorado 7-3, advances to the semifinals. The squad is now set to face the Netherlands tonight at the Canada Cup in South Surrey.

Canada Cruises Past TC Colorado, Heads to Semifinals

Team Canada is on fire! With a decisive 7-3 victory over Triple Crown Colorado, the Canadian squad has punched its ticket to the semifinals at the Canada Cup — and the excitement isn’t over yet. They’ll take on the Netherlands tonight at 6 p.m. on Diamond One at Softball City in South Surrey.

A Dominant Run Through the Round Robin

From the very first pitch of the tournament, Canada made it clear: they’re here to win.

On Tuesday (July 8), they kicked things off by overpowering Team New Zealand 8-1. Later that night, they returned to the field and delivered a blistering 15-0 shutout against Team Ukraine.

The momentum didn’t stop there. On Thursday (July 11), Canada rolled past Team BC with an 8-1 win, then wrapped up the round robin with a 10-1 rout of SoCal Sting.

Their only blemish? A single loss that left them with an otherwise impressive 4-1 record heading into the playoff rounds.

Home-Field Advantage, Veteran Talent, and Fresh Fire

Backed by a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars from across British Columbia and the Lower Mainland, Team Canada entered the 2024 Canada Cup with one goal: defend the title they claimed last year in an undefeated championship run.

And with over 1,500 elite athletes from around the globe competing, the energy at Softball City has never been higher.

All Eyes on Tonight

As the sun sets on South Surrey, the spotlight turns to tonight’s semifinal clash with the Netherlands. Can Canada keep its hot streak alive and move one step closer to back-to-back gold?

Fans will find out at 6 p.m. — and if their current form is any indication, you won’t want to miss a moment.

Help Find Harley: 16-Year-Old Girl Missing in Surrey

News

-

July 12, 2025

Help Find Harley: 16-Year-Old Girl Missing in Surrey

Surrey teen Harley Laursen has vanished without a trace. Last seen on July 4, police and family urge the public to help bring her home safely.

A Community on Edge: 16-Year-Old Harley Laursen Missing

Imagine your loved one suddenly vanishing—no calls, no messages, no trace. That’s the unsettling reality Harley Laursen’s family is facing right now, and Surrey Police are urging the public to help bring her home.

Last Seen in Broad Daylight

Harley Laursen, just 16 years old, was last spotted around 11:30 a.m. on July 4, near the 8300 block of 157 Street in Surrey. Since that morning, there’s been complete silence—no contact, no updates.

Described as a Métis teen, Harley stands five-foot-one and weighs approximately 200 pounds. She has brown eyes and blonde shoulder-length hair streaked with pink. When last seen, she was wearing a black floral dress, white headphones, and purple flip flops.

Family Fears the Worst

According to a July 12 news release, Harley’s disappearance is completely out of character. She’s usually in regular contact with her support network. Her family is deeply concerned, especially since she’s never gone this long without checking in.

Their growing worry has turned into a public plea: Where is Harley?

You Might Hold the Key

Every second counts in a missing person case. Surrey Police are asking anyone who may have seen Harley or has information—no matter how small—to come forward.

If you know anything that could help, call the Surrey Police Service non-emergency line at 604-599-0502. Be sure to reference file number 25-38157 (SU).

Let’s Bring Harley Home

Whether you’re a neighbor, passerby, or someone who thinks they saw something—your tip could make all the difference. Let’s work together to reunite Harley with the people who love her. Her safety may depend on your call.

Abbotsford Canucks Unveil 2025-26 Schedule and Banner Night

Sports

-

July 12, 2025

Abbotsford Canucks Unveil 2025-26 Schedule and Banner Night

The Abbotsford Canucks’ 2025-26 schedule is out! Home opener to feature championship banner raising, with 64 games against Pacific rivals.

A New Season Begins with a Banner Moment

Get ready, Abbotsford hockey fans—the countdown is on! The defending Calder Cup champions, Abbotsford Canucks, just dropped their full 2025-26 AHL season schedule, and there’s plenty to cheer about. The highlight? A historic banner raising at the home opener on Friday, October 24 against the Ontario Reign. It’s the franchise’s first-ever championship banner, and the energy at the Abbotsford Centre is expected to be electric.

Familiar Foes and Fierce Rivalries

While the banner may be new, the rivalries remain classic. The Canucks will once again dive deep into battle with their Pacific Division counterparts, facing them 64 times out of their 72 regular season games. That’s right—this season is once again dominated by familiar enemies like the Calgary Wranglers, Henderson Silver Knights, and San Diego Gulls.

They’ll also cross divisions to take on just two non-Pacific teams: the Manitoba Moose and Laval Rocket, keeping travel light but competition fierce.

Key Dates and Marquee Matchups

Abbotsford opens their season on the road in Nevada against the Henderson Silver Knights on Friday, October 10. They’ll enjoy two lengthy six-game homestands—one from Oct. 24 to Nov. 2, and another from March 6 to 15. The toughest stretch? A six-game road trip from Nov. 15 to 29.

And let’s talk about that fiery rivalry with Calgary—it’s not cooling off anytime soon. Abbotsford faces the Wranglers a whopping 12 times this season.

Home Ice Highlights

This season features more midweek action than ever before. Here’s how the home games shake out:

Saturday: 11 games
Sunday: 7 games (5 of them start at 4 p.m.)
Tuesday & Wednesday: 6 games each
Friday: 5 games
Monday: 1 game (Family Day—Feb. 16 at 1 p.m.)

Most other games will start at the regular 7 p.m. slot, with a few exceptions:

Dec. 19 – 6 p.m. vs. Tucson
Dec. 20 – 2 p.m. matinee, also against Tucson

Action Continues During Olympic Pause

While the NHL breaks for the 2026 Winter Olympics from Feb. 6 to 22, the AHL pushes forward. Abbotsford hosts four games during that stretch, including two back-to-back against San Jose and two against Ontario. The 2026 AHL All-Star Classic will take place in Rockford on Feb. 10 and 11.

League Milestone: AHL Turns 90

This year marks the 90th anniversary of the American Hockey League. All 32 teams will play a 72-game schedule, kicking off on Oct. 10 and wrapping up on April 19.

Final Whistle

With a title to defend, rivalries to reignite, and history to celebrate, the 2025-26 season is shaping up to be one for the books. Abbotsford is ready. Are you?

BC Lions Fight to Prove They’re the Real Deal

Sports

-

July 12, 2025