The Northwest Territories wildfire season is now underway, with officials reporting one out-of-control fire covering five hectares as of May 15, 2026. The season, which runs from May 1 to September 30, has prompted territorial fire management teams to prepare for potentially challenging conditions due to ongoing drought in some areas.
The Department of Environment and Climate Change has increased its readiness for 2026, deploying 35 wildfire crews across the territory. This effort is supported by over 100 specialists, 12 air tankers, and seven long-term helicopter contracts. For residents, the territory has introduced a new “Very High” fire danger level to the existing rating system, intended to provide clearer communication by reserving the “Extreme” category only for the most severe situations.
Locally, the Behchokǫ̀ Fire Department continues its role in safeguarding the region. The department operates stations in both Rae and Edzo, maintaining responsibility for more than 200 kilometres of Highway 3, as well as responding to incidents at the Edzo Airport, Frank’s Channel, and the seasonal ice road network connecting to surrounding communities.
Following a record-breaking 2023 season that resulted in the displacement of two-thirds of the territory’s population, officials are focusing on prevention. The government has invested $1.7 million into community resilience projects, such as clearing vegetation to reduce fuel for fires, and has acquired two new sprinkler trailers to help protect buildings and infrastructure. Additionally, the FireSmart program continues to offer support to homeowners, building on over 100 home assessments conducted last year and training provided to local fire departments.
Fire officials note that while snowpack levels are currently adequate, drought conditions mean that fires can burn deeper into the ground. This makes them more difficult to extinguish and necessitates ongoing vigilance from all residents throughout the summer months.
