Canada could face another “catastrophic” wildfire season, the federal government said Wednesday, as El Niño conditions are expected to bring much of the country warmer-than-normal spring and summer temperatures. did.
Last year, Canada experienced its worst fire season on record, with more than 6,600 fires burning 15 million hectares, roughly seven times the annual average. Eight firefighters died and 230,000 people were evacuated from their homes.
This winter, the country experienced higher-than-normal temperatures and widespread drought, setting the stage for another severe wildfire season.
Federal ministers have warned that climate change is causing more extreme weather events such as bushfires, droughts and heatwaves.
“After an extraordinary wildfire season in 2023, we once again face the possibility of an active wildfire season this year,” Environment Minister Stephen Guilbeault said in a statement.
“This is another reminder that we need to work together to reduce the risks from climate change to keep Canadian communities safe.”
