Government of Canada provides an update the 2026 wildfire season – October update

Wildfire seasons are now longer, more complex and more challenging than in the past, and 2026 was no exception. After a slower than average start to the season, wildfire activity, driven by periods of prolonged heat, drought and low humidity, became significant in several regions across the country. Northwestern Ontario and Southern British Columbia were particularly affected, experiencing sustained wildfire activity that threatened communities and critical infrastructure. Wildfire activity was also extremely intense in the Northwest Territories, which accounted for over one third of the total area burned in Canada in 2026.

Wildfire seasons are now longer, more complex and more challenging than in the past, and 2026 was no exception. After a slower than average start to the season, wildfire activity, driven by periods of prolonged heat, drought and low humidity, became significant in several regions across the country. Northwestern Ontario and Southern British Columbia were particularly affected, experiencing sustained wildfire activity that threatened communities and critical infrastructure. Wildfire activity was also extremely intense in the Northwest Territories, which accounted for over one third of the total area burned in Canada in 2026.

Overall, Canada had more than 5,400 wildfires this year that burned approximately 4.5 million hectares. While the situation on the ground has improved significantly, there are several wildfires still active across the country. As a result, since April 2026, wildfires forced more than 33,750 people from their homes, including more than 8,800 people from First Nations communities. As thousands of people, and families, were forced to evacuate, communities came together and first responders worked tirelessly to protect lives and property.