British Columbia (B.C.) is currently experiencing an unusually early and intense wildfire season, with over 100 fires still burning after dry conditions in the province. This situation is not unique to B.C., as other parts of Canada, such as Alberta and Quebec, are also facing similar challenges.
Prescribed burns, such as those being carried out by the B.C. Wildfire Service, can help reduce dried vegetation and protect communities against wildfires. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of these wildfires, namely climate change.
The 2023 wildfire season in Canada was the worst on record, with approximately 15 million hectares burned, over seven times the historic national annual average. This unprecedented situation was driven by early snowmelt, drought conditions in Western Canada, and a rapid transition to dry weather in Eastern Canada.