Federal ministers are warning western Canadians to brace for worsening wildfire conditions this summer, as more than 3.7 million hectares have already burned nationwide and over half of active wildfires remain out of control.
As of Thursday, 225 wildfires were burning across Canada, and 121 were classified as out of control, said Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski during a multi-ministerial briefing in Ottawa.
In the Airdrie region, local fire restrictions remained in effect Thursday, though a special air quality statement was lifted late Thursday night, much of the week
The City of Airdrie has been under a municipal fire advisory since late May. Rocky View County remains under a full fire ban due to dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk. Several neighbouring municipalities have enacted similar restrictions.
Nationally, wildfire conditions are expected to intensify further in the weeks ahead.
Forecasters with Natural Resources Canada are predicting elevated fire risk over the northern Prairies, southcentral British Columbia and northwestern Ontario through the first half of June. In July, that high-risk zone is expected to expand across much of western Canada, with the most significant risk forecast in southern British Columbia.
The federal outlook points to above-normal temperatures from June through August, with drought conditions forecast to worsen across the northern Prairies and parts of northwestern Ontario. Although some precipitation is expected to return to near-normal levels in mid-June, officials say the fire season is likely to escalate through August.
"Wildfires pose a real threat to the safety, health, and economic well-being of communities across Canada," said Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. "Our government is working with provinces, territories, Indigenous partners, and others to strengthen Canada’s wildfire preparedness and response — from advancing science and forecasting, to building the capacity of frontline responders."
Environment and Climate Change Minister Julie Dabrusin said reliable data and public alerts are critical as more Canadians experience smoke and hazardous air quality.
"With extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe, timely and accurate information is essential to protect the health and safety of Canadians, especially from hazardous smoke during wildfires," she said. "Regular, coordinated forecasts help Canadians from coast to coast to coast prepare for current and future climate risks, so our communities can better adapt, respond, and stay safe in the face of climate change."
Public Health Minister Marjorie Michel emphasized that wildfires are a public health emergency as much as a natural hazard.
"Wildfires pose a serious risk to physical and mental health, including from smoke exposure and the stress of evacuations," Michel said. "It is important to stay informed, take the necessary precautions and look out for one another during wildfire season."
The Government Operations Centre (GOC) has activated a wildfire response team at Level 2, focused on risk assessment and planning. On behalf of the federal government, the GOC is coordinating national-level response efforts 24/7 in collaboration with provincial, territorial and non-governmental partners.
Canadians are being urged to use the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System and the federal "Get Prepared" website to learn how to protect themselves. Health Canada has also published a dedicated portal for wildfire smoke health risks, which includes tips to reduce exposure and guidance on managing mental health during evacuation events. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is updated in real-time and helps the public understand local smoke risk and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
In her remarks, Olszewski said, "Our new government remains firm in its commitment to help Canadians prepare for and respond to the growing impact of extreme weather associated to climate change. Through strong cooperation with provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, international partners, and non-governmental organizations, we are taking action to protect Canadians from wildfires. We’re here for Canadians, and your safety will always be our priority."
In 2024, Canada experienced a record $8.9 billion in insured damages from extreme weather, according to Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc. The Canadian Climate Institute projects that climate-related costs to the average Canadian household will rise to between $1,890 and $2,300 annually by 2050 depending on global emissions scenarios.
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