Extreme winter could have positive impacts on 2026 wildfire season
Newfoundland and Labrador was hit hard in the summer of 2025, when nearly 200 homes were destroyed by fast-moving wildfires in Conception Bay North. Families were forced to evacuate with little notice, and many are still rebuilding.
Now, after what feels like snowfall after snowfall, particularly on the Avalon Peninsula, officials say the heavy winter precipitation could bring some level of relief heading into this year’s wildfire season.
Officials say it’s too early to predict the severity of the upcoming season. Minister of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands Pleaman Forsey says he is remaining hopeful that this winter’s snow will lessen the likelihood of a repeat of 2025’s destruction.
The province has also announced a new community approach to wildfire resilience that helps identify and reduce wildfire risks. The program supports local risk assessments, fuel management planning, and mitigation activities. It also strengthens community-level emergency preparedness by providing guidance to property owners to help them protect their homes from wildfires.