OTTAWA - Federal officials have reported that the beginning of this year's wildfire season has been relatively slow when compared to the previous year, 2025. Despite this slower start, the overall risk for wildfires across Canada remains high.

The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre has documented 65 active wildfires throughout the country, of which six have been classified as out of control. These figures highlight the ongoing challenges faced by firefighting efforts as the season progresses.

The areas identified as being at the highest risk for wildfires are primarily located in British Columbia (B.C.) and the Northwest Territories. As the summer continues, southern regions of the Prairies are expected to see increased wildfire risk in July, while Ontario and Quebec are anticipated to be more vulnerable in August.

Looking back at the previous wildfire season in 2025, it was noted as Canada’s second-worst on record, with nearly 90,000 square kilometers of land consumed by fires by September. This area is notably larger than that of New Brunswick, underscoring the significant impact of wildfires on land and communities.

In total, there were around 6,000 wildfires recorded across Canada during the 2025 season, resulting in the displacement of approximately 76,000 individuals from their homes. The devastation caused by these wildfires not only affected the environment but also had profound effects on the lives of those forced to evacuate their residences.

This year’s conditions, while initially slower, serve as a critical reminder of the persistent threats posed by wildfires in Canada. The government and relevant agencies are continuously monitoring the situation, urging communities to remain vigilant as the warmer months progress and conditions potentially become more conducive to wildfires.