That's not a metaphorical question. As Alberta deals with an ongoing wildfire situation the premier has called "unprecedented", the province goes to the polls in less than three weeks for the closest election in decades. 

Over the weekend a state of emergency was declared and the federal government promised support. But though temperatures have cooled, the scorching weather blamed for starting these fires is forecast to return. Tens of thousands of Albertans have already evacuated their homes,  and it remains to be seen when they might return.

So what happens now? To the fires? To the campaign? On election day itself?

GUEST: Courtney Theriault, reporter, CityNews Edmonton

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