Sask. wildfires: Above average wildfire activity in Sask. expected, feds say in update [Video]

While not as dire as in other provinces, those in Saskatchewan should expect above average wildfire activity for the remainder of the year.

Officials from several federal agencies as well as ministers were in attendance to provide an updated forecast for the 2024 wildfire and hurricane season on Monday.

“This forecast anticipates above normal fire activity could extend well into September, especially across the southern portions of western Canada,” explained Julienne Morrisette, director of Wildland Fire Research with Natural Resources Canada.

“While annual burned areas fluctuate year to year depending on the fire conditions, overall, we are seeing a general increase in annual burned area over time.”

According to Morrisette, the past 10 years have exceeded Canada’s 25 year national average of 2.3 million hectares burned. The national total currently sits at 4.2 million as of Aug. 14.

“As fire seasons grow more severe, it remains crucial for us to focus on strengthening resilience through things …