OTTAWA, ON — 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. …Responding to wildfires is a collective effort. No one government, community or organization can do it alone. …As Canada continues to face longer and more complex wildfire seasons, the government will also continue strengthening Canada’s emergency management system, increasing our response capacity, and working with partners to make sure we continue to be better prepared in the years ahead.