High temperatures and winds have caused 78 massive fires in Alberta province in western Canada, forcing local authorities to evacuate 13,000 people from the area.

Christie Tucker, an official at the Alberta Wildfire Suppression Center, said, "Since Friday, more than 13,000 residents have been evacuated from Alberta province."

Tucker added in a press conference that "the news could get worse because the province has become a powder keg."

She explained: "We expect very hot weather and very strong winds, especially in the northern half of the province, and this is not good because it contributes to igniting more very active wildfires."

The Canadian official continued that "we recommend firefighters be extremely cautious regarding their personal safety and, of course, the safety of the communities they are protecting."

Around 80 firefighters are scheduled to arrive Saturday from Ontario (east-central) and Quebec (east) to help fight the fires, 19 of which are out of control, according to the same source.

The country’s government said it is ready to provide support if requested.

No immediate reports of fatalities have been received.