Canada: Wildfires threat present for most of the country through September

Event

Wildfires are likely to cause sporadic, localized disruptions to transport and business operations across most of Canada through at least September. Wildfires are a typical feature April-September, particularly after long dry spells or during extremely high temperatures. More wildfires tend to occur in British Columbia Province as well as the Boreal forest areas of the Canadian Prairies Region, Ontario and Quebec provinces, Northwest Territories, and Yukon Territory.

Due to cooler and wetter than normal spring, fire activity was lower at the start of the wildfire season. However, fire activity is forecast to increase from July. Forecast models indicate well-above-average fire potentials across central and eastern Northwest Territories and southern Nunavut Territory as well as northeastern Manitoba and far northwestern Ontario provinces in July. Fire potentials are forecast to increase in August, with well-above-average fire potentials spreading across most Northwest Territories and southern Nunavut Territory as well as northern Alberta, far northeastern British Colombia, Manitoba, western Ontario, and most of Saskatchewan provinces. Well-above-average fire potentials are forecast across far northeastern Alberta, southwestern Brtish Colombia, southern Manitoba, and most of Saskatchewan provinces in September.

Transport and Utilities
Wildfires can lead to evacuations, road closures, and ground transport diversions. Disruptions to arterial roads are possible. The scarcity of alternative routes in some areas means that significant transport disruptions are possible at times. While authorities are experienced in minimizing the potential impact, roads in remote regions are likely to be disrupted for more extended periods due to their relative inaccessibility. Authorities could close routes in the wildfire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. Traffic flows could also be disrupted during re-entry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders.

Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays, congestion, and prompt short-notice flight disruptions if wildfires occur near airports.

Railways can also experience occasional cancellation of services and long delays. Power outages are possible in places due to damaged infrastructure or intentional power cuts to prevent infrastructure damage or to help prevent the spread of the fires.

Health
Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees, plants, and possibly building materials. Such smoke can hurt the eyes, irritate the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. Smoke may also worsen symptoms for people who have pre-existing respiratory conditions - such as respiratory allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages.