Canada, US Face Widespread Wildfire Smoke, Major Canadian Fires Burn Millions of Acres

Federal officials predict a heavy wildfire season across North America in 2025, driven by rapid snowmelt and abnormally warm, dry conditions, with significant fire risks spanning much of the western U.S. and Canada. Canada is already experiencing a record-breaking fire season with over 8 million acres burned, including massive wildfires in Alberta, British Columbia, and northern Ontario, prompting states of emergency and readiness for army-led evacuations and international aid. Environment Canada forecasts an average wildfire season for Newfoundland and Labrador despite a devastating early outbreak, while western provinces face elevated fire weather severity due to dry springs and warm temperatures. The wildfire smoke from Canada is expected to impact northern U.S. states, causing hazy skies, milky sunsets, and potential respiratory irritation throughout the summer, particularly in the Northeast, mid-Atlantic, and Midwest. Authorities emphasize that most wildfires are human-caused and urge hikers and residents to exercise extreme caution with fire in the backcountry and follow local regulations. The combination of environmental factors and human activity underscores the heightened wildfire dangers this year across large parts of North America.