It could be hotter and drier than usual this summer across British Columbia, and we are being encouraged to prepare for potential impacts of wildfires, drought and water scarcity.
The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) is working closely with local governments and First Nations to prepare for the summer hazards, including hosting preparedness sessions throughout the province.
“The Province is ready to support people and communities when emergencies happen, and I encourage everyone – whether you live in B.C. or are visiting – to have an emergency plan, stay alert to conditions and follow the guidance of local authorities,” says Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.
EMCR is available 24/7 to support communities before, during and after emergencies.
Wildfire outlook
An elevated risk of wildfire is expected as temperatures increase throughout B.C.
While much of the province experienced a cooler, and wetter start to June, the Chilcotin, lower Thompson, Okanagan, Vancouver Island and northeast regions of B.C. continue to experience prolonged drought.
These areas are expected to remain at high risk for wildfire throughout the summer.
“The BC Wildfire Service is getting to work every day in protecting communities and reducing the risks. But they cannot do it alone: Do your part, stay informed and be FireSmart,” says Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests.
Preparedness for the 2026 wildfire season builds on actions taken to strengthen the BC Wildfire Service, including:
- expanding the service’s on-the-ground firefighting equipment, such as new trucks and new trailers with water-delivery tools.
- buying mechanical equipment, including pumps, saws and safety gear.
- adding camp infrastructure to help firefighters with easier deployment in more places and for longer periods.
- multi-year investments in predictive tools and technology, such as enhanced wildfire camera networks and an advanced fire-behaviour prediction system.
- investing in the Wildfire Reduction Equipment Support Trust to support wildfire-risk reduction and commercial thinning projects.
Regardless of whether you live or are travelling in B.C., people are urged to be aware of their local fire danger, including open burning prohibitions, and to report wildfires on the BC Wildfire app or by calling *5555.
Drought outlook
The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (MWLRS) continues to monitor drought and water scarcity conditions.
The MWLRS reaffirms their investment in long-term water security, including through the $100-million Watershed Security Fund.
The River Forecast Centre’s latest snowpack survey on June 1 showed B.C.’s overall snowpack is at 64% of normal, compared to June 2025, when snowpack averaged 44% of normal.
Low snowpack, early snowmelt and warm seasonal weather forecasts are elevating drought hazards for this upcoming season, particularly along the southern coast, including Vancouver Island, and the southern Interior.
“It’s not even summer yet, but many watersheds are already under strain, signalling rising water scarcity risks,” says Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship.
“When we all use water more efficiently and prepare early, we can reduce impacts and protect water for communities.”
The BC Drought Information Portal is available for this year, which includes a new water-scarcity level system being piloted in select watersheds.
Seasonal preparedness
Everyone is encouraged to create their emergency plan, which also includes grab-and-go bags.
To ensure you have renters’ or homeowner’s insurance coverage, you can create an Emergency Support Services profile through the BC Services Card app.
In the event of an evacuation, Emergency Support Services (ESS) will provide temporary support to people who are unable to meet their basic needs, including accommodation, clothing, food and incidentals.
An ESS profile can make it easier and quicker to receive support.
People travelling throughout the province are encouraged to have a plan and keep up to date with potential hazards in the area.
You should also learn about travel insurance options and be prepared to adjust plans if needed.
Information on all evacuation orders and evacuation alerts in B.C. is available 24/7 at EmergencyInfoBC.ca.
For more information and to sign up for the new Drought and Water Scarcity Bulletin, click here.
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