Blog

As wildfires grow more intense across Canada, the federal government has announced $45.7 million in funding for 30 wildfire research and preparedness projects. Through Natural Resources Canada’s Foundational Wildfire Knowledge program, the initiative will improve risk assessments, adaptive forestry, and Indigenous-led fire stewardship.

Floods can occur in any region of Canada, and with over 80% of Canadians living in urban areas—and 80% of major cities situated within flood zones—most of the population lives in flood-risk areas. Flooding is the costliest natural hazard in Canada in terms of property damage.

The Government of Canada is investing $6.8 million in 20 new projects to enhance flood mapping and climate adaptation across the country. As flooding becomes more frequent and costly, these initiatives—part of the National Adaptation Strategy—aim to improve data, modelling, and integration of Indigenous Knowledge.

As weather patterns across Canada become more unpredictable, it is essential to be prepared for severe storms and other natural disasters. If you live on a farm or in a rural community, extreme climate events can cause major damage to your home and property, as well as to your crops and livestock—jeopardizing your livelihood as well as the safety of you and your family. Severe wind, floods, and wildfires—these are just some of the natural disasters that can pose serious risks and destroy years of hard work in minutes or hours.

Ministers warn of a severe 2025 wildfire season as over 3.7 million hectares have already burned across five provinces. With 225 active fires—more than half out of control—federal leaders urge vigilance as extreme heat and drought fuel further risk.

Public Safety Canada reports that the area burned by wildfires in Canada so far this year is already the second largest on record: 3.7 million hectares. The 10-year average for wildfire seasons is about 800,000 hectares. Wildfire season typically starts in April, hits its peak in July and ends in October, but research now shows a shift to longer fire seasons as climate change effects continue.

Emergency Preparedness Week was May 4 – 10 this year. The Insurance Bureau of Canada urged residents and businesses in Alberta and BC—provinces hit hardest by disasters—to take action.