Canada is getting ready for a very warm summer in 2025. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) says most parts of the country will see hotter-than-normal weather in June, July, and August. This means higher temperatures, more wildfire risks, and some uncertainty about rain. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and prepared.
Hotter Weather Across Canada
The weather experts at ECCC predict that summer 2025 will be warmer than usual in most areas of Canada. Places like British Columbia (B.C.), Manitoba, and Atlantic Canada will likely feel the heat the most. In B.C., temperatures are already climbing close to 30°C in early June, making it feel like summer has started early. This hot weather is expected to continue through the summer, possibly until Labour Day.
Why is it so warm? Scientists say climate change is a big reason. Over the past 75 years, Canada’s average summer temperatures have gone up by 1.8°C. This warming trend makes hot summers more common, and 2025 will likely follow this pattern.
Wildfire Risks in Western Canada
One of the biggest concerns for summer 2025 is wildfires, especially in Western Canada. Areas like B.C. and Manitoba are at high risk because of dry conditions and not enough rain this spring. ECCC says Canada has already seen three times more land burned by wildfires this year compared to the average over the past 10 years. In late May, Manitoba had a big fire near Flin Flon, and B.C. had 42 active wildfires, with 15 out of control.
Experts warn that July could bring even more severe wildfires, similar to the tough summer of 2021 when B.C. faced droughts, fires, and a deadly heatwave. If you live in these areas, it’s important to stay updated on fire alerts and have a plan to stay safe.
Tips to Stay Safe During Wildfires
- Sign up for local weather and fire alerts on your phone.
- Keep an emergency kit with water, food, and important documents.
- Check air quality reports, as wildfire smoke can make it hard to breathe.
- Have a plan to evacuate if fires get close to your home.
Will It Rain Enough?
While experts are sure about the hot weather, they’re less certain about rainfall. Predicting rain for the whole summer is tricky. Some areas, especially in Atlantic Canada, might be drier than usual, which could make wildfires worse. Other places might get normal or even more rain, but it’s hard to know exactly where or when.
Not enough rain could lead to drought, which means less water for farms, cities, and forests. This is a big worry for places like Manitoba, where dry conditions could make the summer tough for farmers and communities.
Climate Change and Heatwaves
Climate change is making summers hotter and more extreme. ECCC says the warming we’re seeing is part of a long-term trend that’s raising temperatures across Canada. This can lead to heatwaves, which are periods of very hot weather that can be dangerous, especially for older people, kids, and those without air conditioning.
In Vancouver, support workers are already helping people like the elderly and homeless stay cool as temperatures rise. Here are some ways to stay safe during a heatwave:
- Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty.
- Stay in cool places, like air-conditioned buildings or shaded areas.
- Check on family, friends, and neighbors who might need help.
- Never leave kids or pets in a parked car—it can get dangerously hot.
Hurricanes in Atlantic Canada
Another thing to watch for is hurricanes. ECCC predicts an active hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean, with 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 5 major hurricanes. While most of these storms stay in the ocean, some could affect Atlantic Canada, like the three storms that hit in 2024. If you live in places like Nova Scotia or Newfoundland, keep an eye on weather updates as the season goes on.
How This Affects You
The hot summer could impact daily life in many ways. For example, Calgary is expecting over 5.8 million travelers this summer for events like the G7 meeting, the Rotary International Convention, and the Calgary Stampede. Hot weather and possible wildfires could make travel trickier, so plan ahead if you’re heading to these events.
Farmers might face challenges if there’s not enough rain, and everyone will need to be careful about heat and fire risks. By staying informed and prepared, you can enjoy the summer while keeping safety first.
Stay Prepared for Summer 2025
Canada’s summer 2025 is shaping up to be a hot one, with risks of wildfires and maybe even hurricanes. While we can’t control the weather, we can get ready for it. Follow these steps to stay safe:
- Check weather updates regularly from trusted sources like ECCC.
- Have a plan for heatwaves and wildfires, especially if you live in B.C. or Manitoba.
- Save water and be mindful of drought risks in your area.
- Stay alert for hurricane warnings if you’re in Atlantic Canada.
At Canadian Updates, we’re here to keep you informed with the latest news. Stay tuned for more updates on Canada’s weather and how to stay safe this summer!
