Canada remains firmly in the midst of the 2026 wildfire season, with hundreds of active fires continuing to test emergency response efforts across the country as governments prepare for elevated fire risk into the fall.
As of August 18, there were 582 active wildfires nationwide, including 31 out-of-control fires receiving full suppression efforts. So far this season, Canada has recorded 4,793 wildfires that have burned 4.1 million hectares. While the number of fires has surpassed the same point last year, the total area burned remains well below the 7.7 million hectares recorded by mid-August 2025.
The season has been driven by prolonged heat, low humidity and persistent dry conditions. In July, these factors fuelled destructive wildfires across Northwestern Ontario, forcing the evacuation of several communities, including numerous First Nations. Following Ontario’s Request for Federal Assistance, the Canadian Armed Forces began evacuating residents of Eabametoong First Nation (Fort Hope) on July 18.
Western Canada has also faced significant challenges. Persistent heat and limited rainfall intensified wildfire activity in British Columbia’s Fraser Canyon and Okanagan Valley, prompting widespread evacuations. After British Columbia requested federal assistance, Ottawa approved support for emergency shelter and accommodations for displaced residents. More than 10,000 people remain under evacuation orders as federal and provincial authorities continue working together to support affected communities.
As response efforts continue, federal ministers emphasized the ongoing challenges facing communities across the country.
“We are still in the heart of the 2026 wildfire season, and communities across the country are facing the very real impacts of these fires. My thoughts are with everyone who has been affected, especially those who have been evacuated, injured or who have lost their lives or homes. Federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments are working tirelessly to support communities through the remainder of this wildfire season. We remain prepared, and ready to respond as conditions evolve to keep Canadians and their communities safe,” assured the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada.
Indigenous Services Canada continues to work alongside First Nations, provinces, territories and emergency partners through its Emergency Management Assistance Program (EMAP), which reimburses 100 percent of eligible wildfire response costs for First Nations. The program covers evacuation transportation, accommodations, food, security, mental health and wellness supports, while also funding equipment such as air purifiers, air scrubbers and generators that can help communities safely remain in place where appropriate.
Highlighting the resilience of Indigenous communities throughout the wildfire season, the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty said:
“Over the past three months, First Nations leaders, community first responders and local volunteers affected by wildland fires have demonstrated resilience, solidarity, and courage in their response effort. My thoughts are in particular with those in various communities who evacuated due to these terrifying events, those who have lost homes, and those who experienced the displacement from loved ones. In the face of these impacts, we will be by your side to provide the support you need during and after this challenging season and to be prepared for any future emergency.”
Weather forecasts suggest wildfire activity could remain elevated through September. Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting above-average temperatures across much of the country, while Natural Resources Canada expects southern British Columbia to remain active despite the possibility of precipitation easing conditions. Elevated fire danger is also expected in parts of northern British Columbia, Yukon, the Northwest Territories, northwestern Quebec and Nunavut.
Looking further ahead, wildfire danger is projected to remain above normal across much of Canada in September, although seasonal conditions in northern regions are expected to limit the likelihood of large fire growth.
To strengthen Canada’s response capacity, more than 500 firefighters from Mexico, Costa Rica, New Zealand and Australia have joined Canadian crews this summer, helping protect communities and critical infrastructure during periods of intense wildfire activity.
The federal government also highlighted ongoing investments aimed at strengthening preparedness and reducing wildfire risk.
“With wildfires burning across Canada, communities across the country, notably in British Columbia, are dealing with forced evacuations, hazardous smoke, and growing threats to their homes. We are investing in efforts to strengthen community preparedness and reduce local wildfire risks, and continue to work with provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners to help protect Canadians, their homes and livelihoods,” stated the Honourable Minister Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.
Officials are also encouraging Canadians to remain vigilant by monitoring local alerts, weather forecasts and air quality information as conditions continue to evolve.
“Wildfires continue to challenge communities across Canada. Canadians can rely on Environment and Climate Change Canada for timely information about weather conditions, smoke forecasts, and air quality. This information supports response efforts and helps Canadians make informed decisions for their health and safety. I encourage Canadians to pay attention to local alerts and be prepared to take actions to protect themselves, their loved ones and their property,” said the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature.
