Canada wildfires: "Very high" risk for fire activity this summer, Blair says | FULL

Although Canada has already seen disastrous wildfires, Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair warned Thursday that the risk of fire activity in the country for the summer remains "very high."

Blair and Health Minister Jean Yves-Duclos delivered an update on the wildfire season, as government officials warned Canada could be on track for a “record” level of land burned due to an “unprecedented” wildfire season this year.

"In July, most of Canada from British Columbia and the North, through to the prairies and across the country to western Labrador will be at high risk," Blair said. "And as we move into August, while the total area does decrease, especially in eastern Canada, at risk areas still are projected to include Western Canada, North Ontario and western Quebec."

He added that as of Thursday afternoon, 648 wildfires were still burning, with 339 designated as out of control. The minister also reminded Canadians that supports are available, including those intended to address mental health challenges rooted in wildfire stress, and evacuation programs to keep residents safe.

The wildfires have left a trail of destruction across Canada and their effects have been felt far beyond the impacted communities, with smoke blanketing much of the nation.

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