Canada reports more than 5,400 wildfires and 33,750 evacuees in 2026
A Conair airtanker drops fire retardant in a photograph published by the BC Wildfire Service in 2022. File photo.
Photo credit: BC Wildfire Service
OTTAWA — More than 5,400 wildfires burned approximately 4.5 million hectares across Canada in 2026, forcing more than 33,750 people from their homes, according to an October 15 update from Public Safety Canada.
More than 8,800 people evacuated from First Nations communities during the fire season. Northwestern Ontario and southern British Columbia experienced significant wildfire activity, while the Northwest Territories accounted for more than one-third of the total area burned nationwide.
Wildfire activity increased following a relatively slow start to the season, with prolonged heat, drought and low humidity contributing to conditions in several regions.
The federal government also reported results from Canada's first nationally coordinated aerial firefighting reserve, established through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre.
Ten aircraft leased through a $316.7-million federal investment over five years logged more than 2,120 flight hours and completed over 14,400 water and fire-retardant drops during the season.
The aircraft, contracted through Conair Group, Coldstream Helicopters and VIH Helicopters, were deployed across nine provinces and territories during peak wildfire activity.
British Columbia requested federal assistance with emergency accommodations, leading the Canadian Armed Forces to provide lodging for evacuees at the Vernon Cadet Camp.
Canada also received assistance from more than 560 international firefighters from Mexico, Costa Rica, New Zealand and Australia.
Although wildfire conditions had improved significantly by mid-October, some fires remained active across the country when the federal update was released.
The government says recovery and rebuilding efforts will continue in affected communities, alongside efforts to improve wildfire preparedness and emergency response capacity.
The federal government is renewing $30 million in funding for a national loan program that helps women start or expand businesses, with loans of up to $50,000 available through participating nonprofit organizations.