Federal Wildfire Data Predicts Severe Fire Season Across Canada
Federal officials warn of a grim wildfire season this summer, with higher-than-normal fire activity expected throughout most of Canada until August. As of Sunday, 413 active fires have been reported across different provinces and territories.
In northeastern B.C., over 1,575 square kilometers have been scorched by the Donnie Creek wildfire. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that this is a concerning time for many, as fire risks continue to heighten across the country.
Over half of the active fires are considered to be out of control, leaving approximately 26,206 people under evacuation orders in British Columbia, Alberta, Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair emphasized the unusual nature of the number of fires at this time of year.
Officials urge all Canadians in forested areas to take extreme care and precautions in order to avoid accidentally starting fires. So far this fire season, more than three million hectares have burned throughout 2,214 fires – far surpassing the ten-year average of 1,624 fires and 254,429 hectares consumed.
Except for Newfoundland and Labrador, where fire risk remains average, June’s fire risk is considered well above normal in all provinces and territories. According to fire research analysts, the current wildfire state is influenced by a fading La Niña and developing El Niño, which cause higher-than-usual heat and windy, dry conditions.
While the federal government has approved aid requests to several provinces and Canadian Armed Forces troops’ deployment, Trudeau assures enough resources to cover the summer are available. Contingency plans are being developed to ensure all Canadians’ safety and protection throughout the wildfire season.
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