Edmonton Daily Roundup: Top 5 News Stories You Need to Know Today

Good morning, Edmonton. Here are the top five news stories you need to know this Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

1. Edmonton MP Matt Jeneroux Crosses Floor to Liberals

Edmonton MP Matt Jeneroux defected from the Conservative Party to the Liberal Party on Monday, becoming the third Conservative to switch sides since the April 2025 federal election.

The move brings Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal government closer to securing a majority in the House of Commons. Jeneroux represents an Edmonton riding and has served as a Conservative MP since his first election.

The floor-crossing marks a significant political shift for Edmonton's federal representation. Jeneroux's decision follows two other Conservative defections to the Liberal Party in recent months. His departure weakens Conservative representation in Alberta, a province traditionally considered a stronghold for the party.

Prime Minister Carney welcomed Jeneroux to the Liberal caucus in a statement released Monday evening. The Conservatives have not yet issued a formal response to the defection.

Jeneroux's riding will remain under Liberal representation unless a by-election is triggered. The MP's decision to cross the floor does not require him to vacate his seat under current parliamentary rules.

Political analysts suggest the move could signal broader challenges for Conservative leadership in urban Alberta ridings. Edmonton has seen increased political diversity in recent federal elections, with the Liberal Party gaining ground in previously Conservative-held seats.

2. Travel Advisory Update Affects Stranded Albertans in Mexico

Canada updated its travel advisory for Mexico on Monday, affecting numerous Albertans currently stranded in the country and waiting to return home.

The revised advisory comes as travelers face delays and complications at Mexican airports. Global Affairs Canada adjusted the advisory level for several Mexican states, prompting airlines to modify their flight schedules and protocols.

Edmonton International Airport confirmed it has received inquiries from travelers attempting to book return flights from Mexico. Airport officials are working with airlines to accommodate passengers affected by the advisory changes.

The number of stranded Albertans has not been officially confirmed. Travel agencies in Edmonton report fielding calls from clients seeking information about return travel options and cancellation policies.

The updated advisory does not constitute a complete travel ban. Canadian citizens in Mexico are advised to monitor local conditions and follow guidance from Canadian consular services. The advisory includes information about specific regions and safety considerations.

Travelers with upcoming trips to Mexico are encouraged to check current advisory levels before departure. Travel insurance policies may cover certain cancellation or delay scenarios related to government travel advisories.

The Mexican government has not issued a formal response to Canada's updated advisory. Diplomatic relations between the two countries remain stable despite the travel guidance changes.

3. Emergency Response Closes Section of Downtown Edmonton

Edmonton police advised drivers to avoid an area near Bellamy Hill on Tuesday morning as fire crews responded to an incident.

The emergency response closed a section of downtown Edmonton during the morning commute. Police cordoned off the area around Bellamy Hill and a nearby avenue while firefighters worked at the scene.

Authorities have not released details about the nature of the emergency. No injuries have been reported as of 7:00 AM.

The closure affected several bus routes that typically travel through the area. Edmonton Transit Service rerouted buses around the affected zone. Commuters were advised to expect delays during the morning rush hour.

Fire crews arrived at the scene shortly after 6:00 AM. Multiple emergency vehicles responded to the call, including fire trucks and ambulances.

The incident occurred in a high-traffic area of downtown Edmonton near several office buildings and government facilities. Workers arriving for the morning shift reported seeing emergency vehicles and road closures.

Police estimate the area will remain closed through mid-morning. Updates will be posted as the situation develops and roads reopen to traffic.

Drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes through downtown Edmonton until the all-clear is given. Real-time traffic information is available through the city's traffic monitoring system.

4. Edmonton Firefighters Exceed Muscular Dystrophy Fundraising Goal

Edmonton firefighters completed a fundraising campaign for muscular dystrophy research, raising over $85,000 and surpassing their original goal of $71,000.

The campaign involved selling bags and camping equipment to raise funds. Firefighters from stations across Edmonton participated in the multi-week initiative that concluded this week.

The funds will support Muscular Dystrophy Canada's research programs and family services. The organization provides support to Canadians living with neuromuscular disorders and funds research into treatments and potential cures.

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services has maintained a partnership with Muscular Dystrophy Canada for several years. The annual fundraising effort represents one of the department's major community outreach initiatives.

Firefighters sold reusable bags and camping gear through various channels, including online sales and in-person events at fire stations. The campaign ran for six weeks, ending in mid-February.

The $85,000 total represents a 20 percent increase over the original goal. Organizers credited strong community support and increased awareness for the fundraising success.

This year's campaign exceeded previous years' totals. The firefighters' fundraising efforts have contributed more than $400,000 to muscular dystrophy research and support services over the past five years.

Muscular Dystrophy Canada thanked Edmonton Fire Rescue Services in a statement released Monday. The organization noted that firefighter-led campaigns represent a significant portion of their annual funding in Alberta.

5. Edmonton Oilers Face Anaheim Ducks Amid Three-Game Losing Streak

The Edmonton Oilers bring a three-game losing streak into their Tuesday night matchup against the Anaheim Ducks at Rogers Place.

The Oilers have lost their last three games, dropping their recent record and putting pressure on the team as the NHL season progresses. The losing streak represents the team's longest slump in over a month.

Tuesday's game against Anaheim offers the Oilers an opportunity to break the streak at home. Rogers Place has been a stronger venue for the team this season, with the Oilers posting a better record in Edmonton than on the road.

The Ducks enter the game with their own challenges this season. Anaheim has struggled in the standings and sits near the bottom of the Pacific Division. However, divisional matchups often produce unpredictable results regardless of season records.

Oilers fans will look for improved performance from key players who have faced criticism during the recent slide. The team's special teams units have been inconsistent during the losing streak, with both power play and penalty kill efficiency dropping.

Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM at Rogers Place. The game will be broadcast on regional sports networks and available through NHL streaming services.

The Oilers coaching staff held additional practice sessions this week to address issues that emerged during the three-game skid. Players spoke to media Monday about the need to refocus and return to fundamental hockey.

A win against Anaheim would provide momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season. The Oilers remain in playoff contention but need to stabilize their performance to secure a postseason position.

---

That's your Edmonton news roundup for Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Check back tomorrow morning at 7:00 AM for the latest stories from around the city.