In recent weeks, Canada has been facing an alarming situation: hundreds of thousands of hectares have been devastated by flames. According to the country’s Interagency Fire Centre, the burned area since the beginning of the year exceeds that of 2022.

The numbers are staggering and reflect a critical situation. Indeed, several Canadian regions are currently being affected by impressive forest fires. As of the time of writing (Thursday, June 8, 2023, in the evening), more than 431 active fires were recorded on the website of the Canadian Interagency Fire Centre (CIFFC). Among them, over half – approximately 240 – were considered “out of control.”

Fire in Canada: Fires intensify again in the west of the thousands of people evacuated

Since January, a staggering five and a half million hectares have already burned in nearly 2,300 separate fires. This toll is particularly worrisome as it represents more than what was destroyed throughout the previous year.

Data provided by CIFFC indicate that this year is already considered one of the worst in Canadian history, with five and a half million hectares decimated, which is approximately six times the total area of Corsica.

In comparative terms, only the years 1989 (5.9 million ha), 1994 (5.2), and 1995 (7.1) have seen larger tolls since 1983.

To combat these uncontrollable flames and escalating wildfires, several European countries such as France and Spain have already offered to send around 300 firefighters to assist Canada.

Fire in Canada: Fires intensify again in the west of the thousands of people evacuated

Similarly, Ottawa has sought the support of the European Union through the Civil Protection Mechanism, as mentioned by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, cited by AFP.

The consequences are also being felt in the United States, where tens of millions of Americans are currently experiencing air pollution due to the smoke emanating from the Canadian fires.

This rare situation is a harsh reminder of the impacts of climate change, according to U.S. President Joe Biden. Flights are being delayed due to reduced visibility.