El Niño could raise risk for hazardous wildfire season in 2024

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — It’s no secret that the lack of snowfall in the Peace region is unusual for this time of year, but Environment Canada says it also raises risks for another hazardous wildfire season. 

In contrast to last year’s La Niña, the region is currently experiencing the El Niño phenomenon, bringing warmer than normal temperatures and minimal precipitation. 

According to Environment Canada meteorologist Derek Lee, the lack of snow creates the possibility of a “very short-lived season of melt” in the spring. 

“What that means is, parts of the earth after the spring snowmelt can be drier, just because we don’t have that prolonged period of melt-water coming down,” said Lee. 

“So, that can raise the risks of having another hazardous fire season upcoming. The overall concern is there, just due to the lack of snow, and the possible short-duration spring melt, because there is nothing to really melt.”

During the province’s record-breaking wildfire season this year, northeast B.C. experienced the Donnie Creek wildfire, which still burns at 619,072 hectares and is classified by the BC Wildfire Service as under control. 

Multiple evacuation orders and alerts were issued throughout the region, and many farmers and ranchers are still dealing with the high costs of damage to their property from wildfires.  

Lee says the risks of a hazardous wildfire season aren’t solidified. 

“It’s just [a risk] if we don’t get enough precipitation coming up,” said Lee. “Anything can change.”

Peace region residents can stay up-to-date on current and forecasted weather conditions by visiting Environment Canada’s website.