Fire crews in the Yukon are monitoring the start of the 2026 fire season as officials track vegetation fires in the region. While the season typically runs from late April through July, activity has already begun, signaling a need for continued vigilance across the territory.
The Yukon fire season officially started on April 9, 2026, when a fire was detected east of Aishihik Lake. Known as a “zombie fire,” this blaze is suspected to be a holdover from the 2025 season. These fires occur when embers burn deep into the ground, where they are insulated by snow throughout the winter before reappearing in the spring. That specific fire, covering one hectare, is currently being held by crews.
To prepare for potential emergencies, Yukon Wildland Fire Management uses advanced weather modelling to predict risks and determine where to place firefighting teams. This territorial agency works to protect property and infrastructure, and coordinates with counterparts like the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection when incidents occur near the international border.
In the community, the Dawson City Fire Department remains the primary responder for structural fires and local emergencies. The department is supported by a team of members, including a deputy fire chief, an assistant chief, four captains, and up to 25 firefighters, under the direction of a paid fire chief. These teams work alongside government agencies to ensure residents remain safe throughout the changing seasons.
For those travelling near the border, the South Klondike Highway stretches 158 kilometres from Skagway, Alaska, through British Columbia, and connects to the Alaska Highway in the Yukon. Residents are encouraged to stay informed as fire crews continue to monitor conditions across the territory.
