Ottawa, June 10, 2025: Canada is poised to experience one of its hottest summers on record, with meteorologists forecasting above-normal temperatures across nearly the entire country. Environment and Climate Change Canada, alongside other meteorological agencies, has issued a high-confidence alert for hotter-than-usual conditions especially in eastern provinces, the Prairies, and British Columbia. Only limited regions, such as the B.C. coast and the Northwest Territories, are expected to see near-normal or cooler conditions.
Elevated humidity levels, particularly in Atlantic Canada, are expected to amplify discomfort during the peak of summer. This will likely result in muggy nights, increased heatwave activity, and a heightened chance of severe thunderstorms especially in the storm-prone “ring of fire” zones of the Prairies.
The early arrival of heat follows a dry spring, worsening wildfire and drought risks in western provinces. Officials have already flagged a sharp uptick in fire activity, with more than 7.8 million acres scorched as of early June surpassing the 25-year seasonal average. A concerning trend is the recurrence of “zombie fires” blazes that burn underground through winter only to reignite in spring particularly seen in British Columbia and Manitoba.
Currently, about 200 wildfires remain active, engulfing nearly 1.9 million hectares. This places 2025 among the worst early wildfire seasons in Canadian history, second only to 2023.
The extreme summer forecast also reinforces Canada’s broader climate trajectory. The country is warming at twice the global average, with human-induced climate change exacerbating weather extremes and environmental degradation. Smoke from these wildfires is already spreading into central Canada, parts of the U.S., and Europe. The toxic air has been linked to respiratory ailments, cardiovascular stress, and increased emergency room visits.
In light of these risks, Canadians are being urged to remain vigilant. WeatherCAN and other real-time forecasting tools are being promoted to help residents respond swiftly to heat advisories and air quality alerts. Public health officials are encouraging preventive actions such as staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activity during peak heat hours, and maintaining clean indoor air through filtration. Authorities also call for adherence to burn bans and regional evacuation protocols to mitigate wildfire threats.
This summer is shaping up to be a defining climate event for Canada both in its intensity and its implications for public health, environmental policy, and national resilience planning.
